By Estelle Dansey | DA Councillor Matjhabeng Local Municipality
Note to editors: Please find attached English and Afrikaans soundbites by Cllr Estelle Dansey and Sesotho soundbite by Jafta Mokoena MPL
The Democratic Alliance (DA) will hold Matjhabeng Local Municipality accountable for failing to resolve the appalling service delivery issues plaguing Odendaalsrus.
Years of municipal neglect have left residents to endure deteriorating infrastructure, including a major water leak and recurring sewerage overflows, which have devastating consequences for the entire town.
For over six months, residents have reported the water leak at the old Pick ‘n Pay circle and the recurring sewerage overflow on Voortrekker Avenue, yet the municipality has failed to act. These unresolved issues impact the entire community, threatening public health and safety.
The water leak at the Pick ‘n Pay circle has been attributed to delays in paying contractor quotes stuck in the municipality’s supply chain processes. Councillor Estelle Dansey has repeatedly warned that the road at this critical entrance to Odendaalsrus is on the verge of collapse, endangering all road users and further isolating the town.
The persistent sewerage overflow on Voortrekker Avenue stems from debris allegedly originating from Correctional Services. Temporary fixes using rods and jets have failed to address the underlying issue, leaving residents to suffer repeated blockages and unsanitary conditions.
The DA calls on the Matjhabeng Local Municipality to act immediately:
1. Fast-track payments to contractors to repair the water leak at the Pick ‘n Pay circle.
2. Reinforce and repair the collapsed road to restore safe access to the town.
3. Implement permanent infrastructure improvements to prevent ongoing sewerage blockages caused by correctional services.
Without immediate intervention, Odendaalsrus will face further decline, affecting residents’ quality of life, local businesses, and the town’s overall safety.
We remain committed to fighting for the community’s rights and will escalate this matter to higher government levels if the municipality fails to act.
The people of Odendaalsrus deserve clean, safe, and functional infrastructure. The time for excuses is over—it’s time for accountability and action.