Handwashing remains the number one line of attack for preventing the spread of Covid-19.
However, it must be done properly and with soap and water.
Unfortunately, not everyone has access to proper water and sanitation.
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The Department of Water and Sanitation (DWS) has come on board and delivered 183 water tanks to all the local municipalities in the Nkangala District.
Out of the 183 water tanks, Dr JS Moroka Local Municipality received 64, Emakhazeni Local Municipality received 20, Emalahleni Local Municipality received 20, Steve Tshwete Local Municipality received 16, Thembisile Hani Local Municipality received 50 and Victor Khanye Local Municipality received 13.
The water tanks are part of the interventions by the department to enable reliable water supply to communities to ensure that people comply with the regulations of the lockdown and regularly wash their hands to contain the spread of the deadly coronavirus.
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The water tanks have been delivered to the local municipalities to be distributed and placed at strategic places to ensure people have access to a reliable water supply closer to their households and no longer have to walk long distances to get the most precious resource, especially during this lockdown period.
Reliable water supply will ensure that people can regularly wash their hands and, thus play a major role in curbing the spread of the coronavirus.
In the meantime, as the water tanks are being installed, the communities are receiving water through water tankers, of which the department has contributed 25 throughout the district.
Dr JS Moroka has eight, Emakhazeni has two, Emalahleni has three, Steve Tshwete has six and Thembisile Hani and Victor Khanye also have three each.
The department urges the communities to take ownership of the equipment and guard it against any form of vandalism as the infrastructure will continue to provide a reliable water supply post lockdown.
“The department also pleads with the community to monitor the water tanks to prevent corruption and report any misuse,” said Sputnik Ratau, spokesperson for DWS.
“The department reminds the communities to use the available water wisely and sparingly as every drop counts in our water scarce country.”
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