A fresh dispute is emerging over eThekwini Municipality’s proposed R74 billion budget, with ratepayer groups warning that planned tariff increases will place further strain on already struggling households.
The municipality has proposed hikes of 10.5% for electricity, 15% for water, 13% for sanitation and refuse removal, and 5% for property rates as part of its draft budget.
The eThekwini Ratepayers Protest Movement has rejected the proposal, describing it as incomplete, lacking transparency, and disconnected from the needs of residents. The group argues that key expenditure details including infrastructure costs and outsourced services have not been clearly outlined, limiting effective public oversight.
Chairperson Asad Gaffar said the increases are unaffordable for many households.
“Many people are struggling to make ends meet and put food on the table, yet the municipality is proposing double-digit tariff increases without considering these financial pressures,” he said.
The municipality has defended the budget, stating that it is balanced and aimed at addressing service delivery backlogs and ageing infrastructure.
Meanwhile, a proposed 5% increase in customer deposit tariffs has been approved for council consideration as part of the 2026/27 draft budget and Integrated Development Plan (IDP) consultations. Officials said the adjustment reflects the costs incurred when providing services to new customers before billing, noting that deposits serve as a security measure rather than a source of income.
The city is also proposing policy changes to address billing disputes and water losses. These include introducing a fixed monthly charge for domestic water users to help fund relief for customers affected by high bills due to undetected leaks.
In addition, residents will have 180 days up from 60 days to submit water loss claims after repairs are completed. The revised policy also outlines clearer procedures for lodging billing disputes, with strengthened powers for municipal officials to investigate and resolve such cases.