The DA in Bushbuckridge has written to the Municipal Manager, Jasper Ngobeni, expressing concern with the ongoing water supply challenges that are faced by residents across different villages.
It has come to our attention that the municipality has implemented a policy of water rationing, which severely affected the daily lives of community members and infringed upon their basic human rights.
Because of this rationing policy, many households in Bushbuckridge access clean water for just a few hours per week. In areas like Dumphries A and B, the situation is dire as residents are unable to fill their jojo tanks during the brief periods when water is available.
Communities in Violet Bank and Shatale face additional challenges due to infrastructure issues and water pressure challenges. This is further exacerbated by the fact that there is no dedicated reservoir for these areas.
It must be noted that a few years ago the municipality decided to cut ties with Rand Water. At the time, the municipality committed to providing an efficient service to their residents.
Therefore, the current water crisis and the water rationing policy contravenes this commitment.
The DA has since given the municipality five days to respond with a detailed action plan addressing the following:
- Refurbishment of existing boreholes
- Installation of new water infrastructure
- Resolution of pressure and valve operation issues
- Implementation of a reliable water supply schedule
The DA stands ready to work with the community and the municipality to find a lasting solution to these challenges. We urge the municipality to constantly engage with the residents and demonstrate the commitment and leadership required to restore confidence in the delivery of essential services.