Note to Editors: Please find attached English and Sesotho soundbites by Cllr Diphapang Mofokeng and Afrikaans soundbite by Cllr Anelia Smit. See attached pictures here, here, here and here.
The Democratic Alliance (DA) in Nketoana Local Municipality is deeply concerned about the continued neglect of key water infrastructure at the Lindley off-storage dams and water treatment works. Lindley residents could soon be left without running water if the Municipality fails to stop the infrastructure’s decay and provide proper security at the water treatment works.
If enough water is not extracted and the storage dams are not filled, residents will have no water, especially with the dry season fast approaching and rain is unlikely. Residents of Lindley have already endured water rationing for the past 12 years, with water available only for 4 hours in the afternoon.
The pump extracting water from the Vaals River is not functioning optimally, with only one of three extraction pipes working. The Pump station is not properly secured, with electrical equipment lying around, neglected and exposed.
We also call for urgent action following a recent oversight inspection at the Lindley Water Treatment Works. This visit was essential, having been prompted by employee requests to inspect conditions at the vital facility.
While the plant remains operational, the DA can confirm severe shortcomings in its upkeep and security. Most concerning is evidence of systemic maintenance failure, shown by the extensive overgrown grass and the complete lack of scheduled cutting.