Plastic solution to water-meter theft   

Northam – The Thabazimbi Local Municipality (TLM) has decided to implement a multi-pronged approach in their fight to end – or at least significantly reduce – the theft of water meters in Northam and surrounding areas.  

On Friday 4 June, Platinum Bushvelder reported on how seven water meters were stolen in Kelly Street, extension 6, in the span of just two weeks. The municipality, which pleaded with residents and scrap metal dealers to report such criminal activities so that syndicates operating in the areas could be brought to book, confirmed that more than 30 water meters had been stolen in various parts of Northam at that time.  

Apart from costing the TLM a pretty penny, the sight of precious potable water going down the drain left many residents concerned. As a long-term measure aimed at addressing the challenges faced by residents being affected by these crimes, the municipality has been installing plastic water meters.