Online Reporter
Midlands Bureau
SCRAP METAL thieves in Gweru have now turned their attention to manhole covers, particularly those made from valuable materials such as cast iron, ductile iron, or galvanised steel.
According to the city’s mayor, Councillor Martin Chivhoko, manhole covers have become a prized commodity, increasingly targeted by organised syndicates. He expressed the local authority’s growing frustration over the rising theft of these critical public assets.
“Sewer reticulation in the city has been severely impacted by the rampant vandalism and theft of manhole covers,” said Clr Chivhoko.
He explained that while the stolen covers may fetch a profit on the scrap metal market, the broader consequences for the local authority and its residents are severe.
“Without proper covers, debris and waste enter the sewer system, causing blockages and sewage overflows that contaminate water sources and pose health risks, especially to children and vulnerable groups.
“The effects of manhole cover theft are multifaceted. Sewer blockages occur when debris enters the system, leading to backups and overflows. There are also significant public health risks when sewage contaminates water sources. Moreover, open manholes present serious hazards, including the risk of injuries from falls.”
Clr Chivhoko added that the local authority is burdened with the cost of cleaning up spills, unblocking drains, and repairing damaged infrastructure.
“As a local authority, we are compelled to incur additional costs to clean up these spills, unblock drains, and fix the damage caused,” he said.
He urged residents to take a more proactive role in safeguarding these vital public assets.
Meanwhile, River Valley Properties has launched a comprehensive road and drainage rehabilitation programme in Gweru’s Woodlands Phase 1 suburb, aimed at upgrading the existing infrastructure.
River Valley Properties Group Chief Executive Officer, Dr Smelly Dube, said the company is working closely with the local community during the project.
“We are addressing sewer blockage issues and will work hand-in-hand with the community to prevent the dumping of foreign objects into sewer lines,” she said.
To help mitigate water supply disruptions, Dr Dube announced that a large water tank will be installed at a strategic location to facilitate sewer reticulation during the city council’s water-shedding periods.
“We are also upgrading the drainage systems with enhanced infrastructure support.
“We urge residents to refrain from dumping foreign objects into storm water drains and sewer lines to prevent future blockages,” she said.
