A break-down of the Watermaster machine resulted in the invasive water weed not being removed for at least a month — allowing the plant to flourish once more.
The Herald last reported on the issue in July, when the dam’s water surface became visible after being completed covered by the weed for months (‘Dam sees light of day’).
Residents were optimistic about the development and hoped the hyacinth would finally be brought under control.
The current situation has them concerned the dam will never be rid of the plant.
DA ward councillor for the area, Brandon Pretorius, shares these concerns.
“On November 14, I received notification that the dam has been closed for recreational purposes due to the removal of hyacinth, which is a great disappointment to the Brakpan community,” he said.
“Although the DA recognises the need to ensure the safety of the community when using the dam, we are concerned over the lack of clarity around the actual clean-up of the dam itself despite there being a contractor onsite.
“Questions remain unanswered, such as, who is the contractor and when will the work be commenced and completed?
“There is also mystery around the state of the Watermaster machine.
“The dam, however, remains in the same state due to consistent breakdowns rendering it ineffective in curbing the dam’s hyacinth problems.
“The ANC-led municipality appears paralysed and unable to take effective action to ensure the dam is clean and safe to use.
“The DA will continue to apply pressure on the authorities to ensure that the dam is returned to its former state and once again open to the Brakpan community.”
Themba Gadebe, spokesperson for the Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Municipality, told the Herald the removal of hyacinth at the dam is underway.
“Work had to be halted as a result of a Watermaster breakdown,” he confirmed.
The Herald visited Jan Smuts Park on Friday and saw the Watermaster back in action.
Also read: Hyacinth puts the choke on Brakpan Dam
Metro tackles hyacinth problem
Inwoners op hol oor vreemde gedrog wat in Brakpan Dam dryf
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