Note to editors: Please find attached English and Afrikaans soundbites by Cllr Estelle Noordman and Sesotho by Karabo Khakhau MP.
During a recent gathering in Philippolis, Phodingh, a significant number of residents voiced their frustrations regarding water scarcity and issues with sewage systems within the Kopanong Local Municipality.
In Philippolis, the community now experiences water supply every alternate day, a change that has had detrimental effects. This decision, reportedly made by the ANC Councillor and workers’ foreman, has resulted in insufficient water access for the community. Residents, particularly in Phodingh and surrounding areas, are forced to resort to primitive methods such as using buckets and jugs to collect water due to the irregular supply. Please see the pictures here, here, here and here.
With only 30% of the required water being distributed among nine towns, equivalent to approximately 3.11% per town per day, the situation is dire. Moreover, malfunctioning sewage systems exacerbate health risks, causing diseases and prolonged inconveniences. Lamentably, the lack of service delivery compounds the community’s distress, leading to a vicious cycle of discontent and deterioration of living conditions.
We recognise the severity of the water crisis, likening it to the impending electricity shortages. Clean water is a fundamental necessity, yet the latest Blue Drop report highlights alarming deficiencies in our country’s water systems, with over 40% failing to meet microbiological compliance standards.
We commit to advocating for the community’s plight within the council. Furthermore, we call for a thorough investigation into the purported decision made by the local ANC councillor, questioning the authority under which water-shedding measures were implemented.