Fire tragedy
THE LETTER “Sincere condolences” (Cape Times, February 14) refers.
I extend my deepest condolences to the family and community of those who died as a result of the fire that occurred in an informal backyard dwelling in Lotus River.
It is important to note that the assertions of Hishaam Mohammed of the Southern Suburbs Legal Advice Centre (SSLAC) are misleading. Contrary to what he states, the private property in Lotus River has a direct water supply, as do all formal households across the city. Additionally, water to put out fires is taken from fire hydrants, not from domestic connections.
This is a private property, which means that the city is prevented, in terms of national legislation, from providing water directly to the residents of the backyard dwellings. The provision of basic services to backyard residents in this instance is, therefore, dependent on arrangements made between the property owner and the backyard tenant.
What’s important is that the city does have a backyard residents programme for those living on council-owned property where all basic services, including water, are provided directly to these residents. This programme has been rolled out in Factreton and is currently under way in Hanover Park.
With regard to Riemvasmaak (Phumlani), the SSLAC did indeed meet with the mayor, and it was explained to them that the city has recently taken responsibility for the land from the Western Cape government.
This means that basic service provision can be enhanced. The plans were explained to the SSLAC and have already been turned into reality: last year, 270 full flush toilets and 270 standpipes were installed. Work is under way on the electrification of every dwelling. Additionally, the refuse removal service that has been provided has been extended to a weekly door-todoor service.
As a caring city, we continue to do everything within our power to increase our already high levels of service delivery and to provide interim relief to our most vulnerable residents amid the highest urbanisation rate in the country and legislative constraints.