The water crisis in Bedfordview has left residents without access to water for over a week, prompting a petition initiated by Ward Clr Jill Humphreys, who is calling for urgent attention to the ageing water infrastructure in the area.
Addressing the dire situation, Humphreys stated, “Our water infrastructure in Bedfordview is broken and I can’t see how the city is going to fix it.
“This infrastructure is what keeps our people here. How can we be without water?
“Right now, I have over 50 broken pipes and water running all over Bedfordview but not in people’s taps – it is unacceptable. We cannot carry on like this.”
Highlighting the significance of Bedfordview to the city, Humphreys emphasised, “This is an upmarket suburb that contributes hugely to employment, business opportunities and city revenue. We cannot afford to be without water for these residents.”
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The petition, initiated on September 1, has already garnered significant attention from the community.
Humphreys added, “I put this petition on the network yesterday and people are flocking in to come and sign it.”
Throughout the week, water tankers were placed in Oriel and Van Buuren roads.
Humphreys’ primary objective with the petition is to draw attention to the weaknesses within various city departments responsible for water infrastructure.
She expressed her concern, stating, “We have lovely officials that are trying extremely hard to do their job, but they don’t have the resources to do it. They don’t have mobility, enough trucks, equipment, or the necessary materials.”
She continued: “When they have to fix a pipe, they have to make a plan.
“They have to make bits and pieces from all over the show and it doesn’t always work. All these issues, the resources to accommodate in our departments, have to be there and it’s not.”
The petition will run for a month.
Humphreys added that numerous community organisations and members are willing to help address the crisis.
“As they recognise the enormity of the problem and at this stage, the HODs are avoiding me, I have asked for a meeting to draw up a memorandum of understanding with the department and with our community. I am still waiting for a response,” explained Humphreys.
