Note to Broadcasters: Please find attached soundbites in English and Afrikaans by Gerhard Strydom
The Democratic Alliance (DA) of Matlosana will make an urgent appeal to the Executive Mayor to prioritize fire hydrant maintenance and ensure transparency in addressing this critical issue. The DA will continue to apply pressure until this serious risk to the community is resolved.
Residents of Matlosana face an increased risk to life and property due to the failure to inspect and maintain fire hydrants for several years. Fire hydrant regulations require annual servicing to check for damage and obstructions, ensure clear marking and accessibility, and guarantee a pressure flow of at least 1200 litres per minute at 300 kPa. However, it has come to light that fire hydrants in Matlosana have not been inspected for years, raising serious concerns about the city’s fire suppression infrastructure.
Regular inspections are critical to ensure proper functioning in emergencies, identifying issues such as low water pressure, damaged valves, and other mechanical problems that could delay or impede firefighters’ ability to combat fires effectively. Every second counts during a fire emergency, and faulty hydrants could lead to unnecessary loss of life and property damage. The lack of inspections underscores the urgent need for accountability and immediate action.
Once again, the excuse for this oversight is a lack of vehicles, personnel, and equipment. It is beyond comprehension why the ANC MMC for Public Safety is unaware of this failure in such a critical service. This is yet another example proving the ANC’s inability to govern effectively, comply with legislation, and act in the best interest of the community they are supposed to serve. Their priorities clearly lie elsewhere.
The DA will continue to expose the ANC-led government’s disregard for the people of Matlosana and hold them accountable for the risks they impose on the community. Immediate intervention is needed to prevent further endangerment to residents’ lives and property.