Bulawayo councillors concerned over costly sewer system vandalism

BULAWAYO - City councillors have raised alarm over the vandalism of sewer infrastructure, warning that the damage is proving costly not only for the Bulawayo City Council (BCC) but also for residents whose bills are used to fund repairs.  

The concerns were highlighted in the latest council minutes under the Water and Sanitation report, which detailed ongoing challenges in maintaining sewer and water systems.  

According to the minutes, Councillor Aleck Ndlovu expressed particular concern over the removal of manhole covers, which he said were the main targets of vandals.  

"He wanted to know if the department had a strategy to protect the manholes. In response, the Water and Sanitation section acknowledged that a significant number of manholes remained uncovered due to vandalism," the minutes read.  

The department confirmed that it had stopped using cast iron manhole covers, which were frequently stolen, and had switched to polymer (poly plastic) lockable covers to reduce vandalism.  

Council noted that the continued destruction of sewer infrastructure undermines service delivery and increases costs for the city, while also posing health and safety risks to residents.