Financial struggles hit Buffalo City Municipality as 22 vehicles removed

Accountability demanded after removal of BCMM municipal vehicles

Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality (BCMM) is facing scrutiny following the attachment and removal of 22 vehicles from its operational fleet, raising concerns over the metro’s financial management and its ability to deliver essential services.

The removal of the vehicles has further hampered already struggling municipal services, including waste management, water supply, electricity maintenance, and sewerage operations. Observers warn that a well-managed fleet is crucial to keeping these services running smoothly.

Recent reports indicate that millions of rands meant for basic service delivery and supplier payments have instead been diverted to non-essential projects, including the Leighandre “Baby Lee” Jegels Recreational Park, Ebuhlanti, the vandalised Zwelitsha Wastewater Treatment Works, and various event sponsorships.

The municipality’s financial difficulties are visible across several service areas:

• Ward-based pothole teams have been unable to fill potholes in the current financial year due to a lack of asphalt.

• Roads and pavements affected by water repairs have not been reinstated.

• Repairs to water and sewerage infrastructure can take weeks, resulting in the loss of large amounts of water.

• Sewage issues requiring jetting are taking multiple days because of a lack of functioning jetting equipment.

• Municipal vehicles remain non-operational for extended periods due to shortages of tyres, batteries, or theft of parts.

• Waste removal and water tanker services are being outsourced because the municipal fleet is often non-operational.

• Law enforcement and traffic operations are limited by a lack of available vehicles.

The removal of 22 vehicles has been interpreted as a serious warning about the municipality’s ability to manage its finances and meet its obligations to residents. Questions have also been raised about whether the Municipal Manager and Acting Chief Financial Officer provided full information to Council regarding court orders obtained against the metro.

Residents of Buffalo City continue to face delays and disruptions in basic municipal services, highlighting the urgent need for improved financial management and operational oversight within the metro.

BCMM had not responded to requests for comment at the time of publication.