Online Reporter
Paul Pindani in CHINHOYI
CHEGUTU Mayor Rydes Tinokura Machekera says the town now has a population of 68,000 people.
He said the municipality’s efforts to service its community is being hampered by, among other things, some rogue elements who are vandalising sewer pipes.
Machekera told H-Metro the town’s population has grown by about 6,000 more residents in the past three years.
And, while water supply among residents has improved, Machekera said rogue elements targeting their sewer pipes were eroding some of the gains which have been made.
The local authority has 12 wards.
“Water production has increased from 15% in 2023 to 60%, allowing the Council to supply water to most residents.” said Machekera.
“Frequent sewer bursts are occurring due to obsolete pipes, which are being replaced.
“However, vandalism by residents, and the throwing of stones, diapers and other solid materials into pipes, is a major concern.”
He said wards 1, 4 and 8 were the hotspots.
“Council is replacing old iron pipes with larger, more durable polythene pipes that are less susceptible to damage from roots,” he said.
He has urged residents and all stakeholders to settle their outstanding bills to the local authority.
“This is crucial for the council to generate the necessary funds to provide efficient and effective service delivery to the community,” said Machekera.
