Talha Randeree
The new plots of land that were sold three years ago at the top end of Murchison Street near St Dominic’s Academy once had the lights blazing every single night.
Today, light bulbs and electrical wiring to every meter box that were installed near these plots have all been stolen.
These plots of land were sold by the municipality to first-time land owners.
Provision for the delivery of bulk services were in place before the sales, but these plots are still vacant.
Even worse, the infrastructure in the area has been stolen, and evidence of attempts at creating illegal electrical connections are evident.
Portfolio Councillor of Human Settlements, Planning and Development, Councillor Matthew Shunmugam said the delay between the sale of the plots and development thereof was expected.
“There is a time delay between the transfer of properties and the admin work. Plus, we can’t expect first-time home owners to suddenly have the money to start erecting properties on these lands so quickly,” he explained.
However, he was shocked that these vital infrastructural components were being stolen and abused by the community.
He said the matter had not yet been reported to Council, and he had only heard about it following questions from the media.
Municipal sources said the matter had been brought to the attention of municipal management.
In the meantime, officials are working on a plan to safeguard future electrical infrastructure.
