The City of Tshwane has issued a stern warning to its residents to address outstanding debt owed for municipal services or risk not having electricity.
The city acknowledged the economic hardships faced by many households but stressed the importance of customers fulfilling their responsibility of paying municipal accounts in full.
The city’s concern arises from the observation that a number of customers have fallen behind in paying their bills, hindering the city’s ability to maintain and enhance essential services.
This places an unjust burden on those conscientious customers who diligently settle their bills each month.
Hampering essential services
“We have noticed with concern that there are customers who have not been paying their municipal bill,” city spokesperson Selby Bokaba said.
“This not only hampers our ability to maintain and improve essential services, but also creates an unfair burden on those customers who diligently settle their bills each month.”
Bokaba warned that consumers will be blocked from topping up their pre-paid electricity meters until they have settled their bills.
“You will not be able to top up your account until the outstanding debt has been settled or a payment arrangement has been made,” explained Bokaba.
“This simply means, if a customer has an account that is in arrears and attempts to purchase electricity, that transaction will be processed.
“However, customers must note that, no electricity units will be allocated to their account.
“Instead, the amount used to buy electricity will be directed towards the outstanding debt owed to the city.
“By allocating the funds towards the debt, we aim to assist in the resolution of arrears and maintain the stability of our services.”
Payment arrangement
Bokaba added that a team has been stablished to assist customers to unblock accounts upon receipt of payment or the initiation of a payment arrangement.
He encouraged people to contact the team to discuss suitable payment options and find a solution that works for both parties.
“The City of Tshwane appreciates the cooperation of all customers who settle their bills on time.
“Your commitment to fulfilling your financial obligations contributes to the overall well-being of our community and stability of the city’s finances.”
