Municipality dismisses allegations of worms in water

The local municipality has responded to numerous complaints about the discolouration of the water pouring from taps. This follows several grievances of concerned community members.

William Maphosa, the municipal spokesperson, says false speculation and misinformation has been circulated concerning the quality and purity of water in Ikageng and surrounding areas.

“Some of the allegations went as far as claiming that the water had worms and that some residents had taken ill and were admitted to hospital as a direct result of drinking the water,” said Maphosa.

He said the municipal laboratory regularly tests the quality of water and the cleanliness of the water supply sources. The discolouration has been tested and the results show that it does not affect the water quality. “The brown colour is ordinarily caused by sediment that has settled and accumulated in the supply network over time.

The sediment itself is harmless; just the colour of the water has changed,” he said.

He continued to explain that the sediment that had accumulated had not negatively impacted the quality and the tests (conducted at the affected service points) did not illustrate any difference from the quality of water that was treated at its source.

They dismiss the allegations of worms being present in the water.

The municipality appeals to those responsible for the claims or who were allegedly admitted to hospital to bring the evidence to their offices.

Maphosa said the tests are ongoing and samples are being collected around Ikageng. “The laboratory will analyse the samples along with the external accredited laboratory (Envirocare).

“Analytical outcomes from both labs will be communicated in due course,” said Maphosa.

Should you experience challenges with the water colouration, you can call the municipal hotline at 018 299 5347.