Note to Editors: Please find attached English soundbite by Cllr Teboho Thulo, Afrikaans soundbite by Cllr Ruanda Meyer and Sesotho soundbite by Cllr Lebohang Chalala.
The Democratic Alliance (DA) has written to the Municipal Manager to request urgent intervention and detailed responses regarding the ongoing daily water interruptions in Metsimaholo Local Municipality, and to call for immediate corrective measures to repair infrastructure and regulate water connections to restore a reliable water supply to affected communities.
The residents of Metsimaholo are experiencing severe water supply challenges due to unregulated water connections and leaking pipes, particularly in informal settlements.
Section 27(1)(b)of our Constitution states that everyone has the right to access sufficient food and water. Section 27 of the Bill of Rights is supported by the Water Services Act 108 of 1997, which ensures access to basic water supply and sanitation.
The lack of formal infrastructure in informal settlements can make leak detection and accurate billing more difficult, placing extra pressure on both residents and service providers.
The Department of Human Settlements’ inadequate planning and implementation of housing projects contribute to the issue. New settlements lack adequate water infrastructure, creating a cycle of water scarcity, higher costs, and health risks for residents.
The municipality’s failure to address these issues results in significant water loss and an increased risk of waterborne diseases.
We urge the Department of Human Settlements to urgently repair leaking water pipes and ensure adequate water infrastructure in housing projects.
We will continue to fight for improved basic service delivery in the Metsimaholo Local Municipality.