The Advertiser previously reported that virtually all services had come to a standstill in the Ekurhuleni Metro due to supplies of fuel and diesel running dry, due to the metro not paying the suppliers.
This is according to DA shadow MMC for Roads and Transport, Bill Rundle.
In a press release sent to the Advertiser about a month ago, Rundle stated that this issue posed a huge risk to residents who would not have access to Emergency Services or EMPD protection.
He also claimed that rubbish was already piling high in Kempton Park where there had been no refuse removal since Tuesday, July 22.
He warned of the deteriorating situation reaching crisis point months ago.
“Metro staff confirmed that supplies have run out at Kempton Park, Edenvale, Bedfordview and the only depot with stock was Boksburg,” said Rundle at the time.”
The matter had allegedly been ongoing from December 2013, and been reported on extensively.
Rundle said the metro had denied that there was a problem, but according to him, it’s clear that the poor payment record of the metro had alienated many suppliers.
“The newly appointed supplier has apparently refused to commence with deliveries unless the metro makes advance payments.”
Rundle said the situation had come about due to bad planning and incompetence.
“Payment arrangements must be part of the supply agreement and be finalised before the awarding of the supply contract.”
Gadebe is adamant that the metro does not owe any service provider for fuel.
“What happened is that we have moved from the singular supplier of fuel and unbundled it to four suppliers.”
The three suppliers, said Gadebe, have commenced working well with the metro, except for one supplier who has been dealing with internal issues.
“We have moved ahead so that vehicles in those affected areas can go to any depot in Ekurhuleni to fill up. The situation has not compromised service delivery at all.” – @IschkeBoksburg
