Ward 106 meeting tackles water concerns
Ward 106 councillor had a meeting with the DA MP for water and sanitation and a contractor who assisted with water and solar solutions.
Ward 106 Clr Tim Denny and his team held an informative meeting at Reading Country Club on August 22.
The meeting was held to discuss the impending water challenges in October and to dispel any myths and untruths about the issue.
Guest speakers included DA deputy spokesperson on water and sanitation, MPL Stephen Moore and Walter Ward of Metrowatt a local borehole company.
Moore clarified major concerns that residents had and addressed all relevant questions from the public.
“The highland water maintenance project, which begins in October, and continues for approximately six months, should not affect our water. Even if there are challenges with that major project, there is still the Sterkfontein dam to supply Gauteng,” Denny stated.
He said Joburg and Gauteng’s recent water shortages were because Rand Water’s Suikerbos Plant, could not keep up with the demand from Gauteng and other areas it supplies.
“This is because of a higher demand and infrastructure failings. However, this upcoming summer, they are concerned about supply, as the water demand could outweigh the supply that Rand Water can give from the treatment plant at Suikerbos Plant, especially in high-lying areas,” he explained.
According to Denny, boreholes and water storage tanks might be a short-term solution, “Ultimately, municipalities and residents have to become far more water-wise and save as much water as possible”.
He said municipalities must prioritise water in their budgets, especially water leaks and the upkeep of all water infrastructures.
“Residents must look at reducing their water usage and saving. The issue is not that we don’t have enough water in the dams, but that Rand Water struggles to keep up with the ever-growing demand for treated water, especially as there are many leaks and wastage in Gauteng,” Denny said.
He urged residents not to panic, but to immediately report any leaks.
“If residents reside in high-lying areas, they should prepare for possible short-term shortages this summer and consult with their relevant councillors and municipal experts.”
Ward of Metrowatt and his team summarised the costs and process of sinking a borehole. The team explained the different options and processes for water solutions for homes, businesses and complexes. They added the solar portion needs to be considered as well.
For further information, contact Denny to be added to the WhatsApp groups to be kept in the loop at 084 468 8556.
Ward of Metrowatt may be contacted via email at walterw@metrowatt.co.za or 079 254 9049.
Should anyone have any Sectional Title or Home Owners Association-related questions, they may contact Sandy Lodder at Standhoa@gmail.com
