R40m Drain: Vandals Wreck Chris Hani Water Plans

While children walk hours to rivers for water, vandals and thieves are ripping out the pipes and cables meant to keep communities alive. Chris Hani District Municipality says it has spent R35 million to R40 million in just two and a half years fixing infrastructure torn apart by criminals.

Municipal spokesperson Dr Sandiso Tyembile says the damage goes far beyond burst pipes.

“This goes beyond water cuts. It destroys our plans, bleeds our budget dry, and leaves our people suffering,” Tyembile said.

Right now, residents in Middelburg and Khowa are paying the price. Pipes have been ripped out, electrical cables stolen, and reservoirs left dry.

“Mothers walk for hours to find a drop of water while taps stand silent in their yards,” Tyembile said. “And it’s not stopping there.”

The municipality says every stolen cable and broken pipe has a human cost. “Because every stolen cable and broken pipe means a child goes thirsty, a clinic can’t function, and a family spends the night in darkness,” he said.

Tyembile confirmed police are now working with the municipality and community forums to track down suspects.

“Hotspot areas flagged include Middelburg, Khowa and Ngcobo. No arrests have been confirmed yet,” he said.

The municipality is pleading with residents to help stop the sabotage.

“If you see something, say something. Report suspicious activity around water and electrical infrastructure to the municipality or SAPS immediately,” Tyembile urged.

With R35m–R40m diverted to repairs since late 2023, the district says its long-term water and sanitation plans are being derailed while basic services collapse in vandalised areas.

Residents with information can report to their nearest police station, Crime Stop on 08600 10111, or the Chris Hani DM customer care line.