High Impact Service Delivery Operation in Ward 34, Soweto

On 22 April the City Manager of Johannesburg, Dr. Floyd Brink, along with Deputy Executive Mayor Cllr Loyiso Masuku, spearheaded a High Impact Service Delivery Operation in Ward 34, Soweto, aimed at addressing the community’s long-standing service delivery challenges.

The comprehensive operation involved a collaboration between multiple municipal departments, including the Johannesburg Metropolitan Police Department (JMPD), Group Forensic and Investigation Services (GFIS), Development Planning, City Power, Joburg Water, Johannesburg Roads Agency, Environmental Health, Johannesburg Property Company, Citizen Relationship and Urban Management (CRUM), Environment Infrastructure Services Department (EISD), Revenue Department and Human Settlements.

Ward 34 has been plagued by various persistent issues such as illegal electricity, water and sewer connections; unlawful construction of structures; sewer blockages; blocked manholes; and potholes. Recognising the urgency of these challenges, the City Manager and Deputy Executive Mayor mobilised various teams to tackle the problems head-on.

In particular, a key focus was the community of Jabulani, specifically on Dlamini Street, where residents have been suffering from ongoing sewage issues. Upon investigation, officials discovered that an illegally constructed structure on Council-owned land was obstructing the main sewer line. In response, Dr. Brink and Cllr Masuku instructed city officials to initiate immediate demolition of the illegal structure to safeguard the city’s vital infrastructure.

Throughout Ward 34, Johannesburg Roads Agency (JRA) teams were busy patching potholes and unblocking kerb inlets. Residents are urged to refrain from disposing of waste into stormwater drainage systems to prevent unnecessary flooding during rainy periods.

City Power teams have been actively repairing streetlights to enhance safety and visibility within the area, while Johannesburg Property Company (JPC) addressed issues related to illegally occupied city properties. Joburg Water teams worked diligently to rectify water leaks and Pikitup teams worked diligently cleaning up of illegal dumping sites.

In an exciting development, City Power also unveiled a pilot programme to install solar street lighting on Mooma Street. This initiative aims to combat vandalism and enhance security in the ward, demonstrating the city’s commitment to innovative solutions for community challenges.

Dr. Brink emphasised, “Today’s operation is a tangible demonstration of our commitment to responsive governance. We understand the importance of addressing these service delivery challenges head-on. Our multi-departmental approach is essential for long-term solutions and we are determined to foster an environment where all Johannesburg residents can thrive.”

Deputy Executive Mayor Cllr Masuku added, “The collaboration among our various departments today shows that we are stronger together. The issues in Ward 34 are not just administrative challenges, they affect the daily lives of our residents. We will continue to work tirelessly to bring about meaningful change.”

The City of Johannesburg remains dedicated to improving service delivery and ensuring that residents receive the support they need for a better quality of life.