RESIDENTS of Strydom Street in Rowallan Park have expressed frustration with the Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality (NMBM) over unresolved power line repairs and associated safety hazards.
The issue, which began in October 2024, involves lingering maintenance work that has left metal sheets and cables exposed, creating risks for families and their pets.
Multiple homes across two streets have been directly affected, with temporary fixes leaving behind open holes and unsecured electrical elements. Local resident, Otto Van Rooyen, highlighted the dangers posed to children and animals.
“Our pets have fallen into these holes, and with missing drain covers, it’s only getting worse,” he said.
In addition to these safety challenges, Van Rooyen’s property rental prospects have been negatively impacted. “I can’t rent my home now. Potential tenants refuse due to the visible safety hazards – especially those with kids,” he added.
Residents claim repeated attempts to engage NMBM have resulted in little progress. The municipality cited staffing limitations, specifically the availability of personnel qualified to handle cable jointing, as a reason for delays. “There’s only one person at NMBM who can do this work,” residents were told.
NMBM spokesperson, Sithembiso Soyaya, indicated that efforts were being made to address the situation. “The team indicated they would send someone to the site today, Thursday, February 13,” Soyaya commented.
Van Rooyen confirmed spotting municipal vehicles but expressed scepticism about any long-term solutions. “They often just come to look and then disappear,” he observed, noting that stray cats have begun occupying the unattended holes.
Residents are urgently calling for a permanent fix and full restoration of the affected areas to ensure safety and restore community confidence. The ongoing situation has raised concerns about municipal responsiveness and the efficiency of infrastructure repairs in Rowallan Park.
