Water, water everywhere, causing such a stink

Residents at Jumpers informal settlement have raised concerns about leaking taps and blocked drains.

They said the leaking taps affected their houses as there were constant puddles and flowing water.

Nomphelo Zozo, who is a community leader at the settlement, said the taps did not function properly and residents were fed up.

“I reported the matter to the ward councillor three months ago but nothing has been done,” said Zozo.

Elton Mathabela, who has been a resident of the settlement since 2007, said the situation was far worse before Zozo moved to Jumpers. “We get better service delivery since she came here. Even though the water doesn’t leak directly inside my house, it smells bad. It’s wet and slippery everywhere and we can’t walk around the settlement,” he said.

Mathabela added that an information management solutions company that operated in the area had also complained about the bad smell. “It’s affecting their work environment but it is beyond our control. There is nothing that we can do about it,” said Mathabela.

Another resident, Mbali Sibiya said the shortage of taps made it even more difficult for them as they have to stand in long queues to get water.

Ward 118 councillor Neuren Pietersen said he was aware of the water situation at the settlement and he had been following up with the relevant department to try and get the situation resolved. “Leaking taps and inadequate reticulation [a network of pipes used in irrigation and water supply] were reported to Johannesburg Water’s Informal Settlement. I followed up again when this was brought to my attention in June,” said Pietersen.

“It was during this last inquiry that the official concerned informed me that she was no longer working for that department and she directed me to the officials who are now responsible for the informal settlements. Reports have been filed accordingly.”

Pietersen promised to share the details of the officials concerned with the Jumpers committee so they could also liase with the officials.

“The issue of the poor reticulation and the impact that this is having on neighbouring businesses will require Johannesburg Water to start responding to the many emails and phone calls I have had with them. Failing which, this will be escalated to the mayoral executive,” he said.

Also read:

Jumpers informal settlement veggie garden gets a new fence thanks to kind hearts

Recruitment drive at Cleveland Police Station

Do you have a story that you would like to share with the Express? Send us an email to joburgeast@caxton.co.za