Over 60 water and sanitation contractors under the eThekwini Municipality have been demanding payment for outstanding invoices, with some claiming they are owed tens of thousands of rands.

The contractors gathered outside the water services depot in Pinetown on Friday morning to protest delayed payments, which have plagued the sector for months.Many had not received payment since December 2025, forcing them to halt work and struggle with staff salaries and basic needs.Despite promises of a new payment system, contractors report ongoing delays and frustration.

The group initially planned to meet municipal officials but faced no response, with acting director Bavna Soni allegedly withdrawing from the process.

Contractors allege policy changes requiring them to apply as managing contractors have left most without work, despite assurances that subcontractors would be hired.The situation threatens the maintenance of critical water and sanitation infrastructure, highlighting systemic issues in public service delivery.