The City of Ekurhuleni faces mounting criticism as persistent delays in the R85 million Katlehong Fire Station project mean residents will have to wait another three months for its completion.
The Katlehong Fire Station has been under construction since 2020, with Executive Mayor Nkosindiphile Xhakaza initially committing to a September 2024 deadline, later followed by MEC Jacob Mamabolo’s announcement of a revised completion date of June 30 2025.
The Democratic Alliance (DA) has slammed the ongoing delays in completing the Katlehong Fire Station, warning that government inaction is costing lives as residents continue to suffer fatal fire incidents during the winter months.
Recent shack fires during the cold winter months have claimed lives, while nearby stations such as Thokoza were under immense strain as they were forced to cover for the lack of fire services in Katlehong.
According to the DA, the Katlehong Fire Station project is “still incomplete and far from operational.” The party noted that earlier explanations for the delays included “expired contracts with service providers, delayed payments, and a backlog in procurement processes.”
Responding to the criticism, MMC for Community Safety, Cllr Sizakele Masuku, insisted that the Katlehong Fire Station is “near completion,” with 90% of the work already finished.
Masuku dismissed circulating social media claims of waste and stagnation, calling them misleading and out of touch with the actual progress on the ground.
“All the electrical, mechanical, structural, and building work has been completed. The remaining scope of work is external work, such as pavements and testing of sewage and water systems and delivery of complete offside material such as furniture and gym equipment.”
She further underscored that the Katlehong Fire Station will definitely be operational within the next three months, by December 2025, firmly assuring residents that the long-awaited facility is on track to finally open its doors and deliver critical fire and rescue services.
Masuku further explained that some delays were caused by a change in leadership within the government. She added that several major projects are set to begin soon, including the construction of three additional fire stations across Ekurhuleni.
The City of Ekuruleni stated that the Katlehong Fire Station has been constructed according to the latest guidelines for building in dolomitic areas.
“Durable material was used from the foundation to plumbing. A high-density polyethylene pipes (HDPE) were used, and the building was constructed on a raft foundation that covers the entire building footprint to protect the building from earth movement or sinkhole’s formation.
The engine wash bay has a grease trap system to catch any chemicals or oil before it reaches the drain system. This will allow it to be cleaned before it pollutes the sewage system.”
The city also added that the building will host the state-of-the-art medical centre for emergency services, Mobile BESAFE trucks, and it has friendly entrances that can be used by people with any physical impairment.
The Star
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