Water crisis hits Potchefstroom: Residents and gravesites affected

Potchefstroom is grappling with a severe water crisis affecting multiple areas, leaving residents and even gravesites inundated. The JB Marks Municipality is under scrutiny for its handling of the situation, with complaints pouring in from various neighborhoods about broken water pumps, drainage issues, and neglected maintenance.

In Baipei-Promosa, resident Amanda Jonas voiced her frustrations, highlighting the persistent water and sewage problems plaguing the area. “We have all the people at the sewage office who tell us every time that the pump machine is broken and the suction machine is unavailable,” said Jonas. According to her, each visit to the sewage office results in the same response: “the pump machine is broken and the suction machine is unavailable.” This has left residents dealing with stagnant water and sewage overflow, creating unsanitary conditions.

The Potchefstroom industrial area is facing similar issues, particularly in the graveyard. Charles Lekgetho recently visited the graveyard to pay respects to his late mother and daughter, only to find it in a deplorable state. “There is water running on top of the graves, and unwanted grass growing everywhere,” Lekgetho reported. “I worry that the water might damage or wash away our loved ones’ memories.” The sight of waterlogged graves and overgrown grass has raised concerns about the potential damage to gravesites and the memories of loved ones buried there. Lekgetho has pleaded with the JB Marks Municipality to address the graveyard’s condition, emphasizing the neglect faced by these resting places. “I understand that our family members who are laid to rest there are not politicians or activists. That’s why they’re not taking our forefathers’ place seriously. I tried to report it, but no one listens from the JB Marks Municipality.”

The problems extend to the Old Apostolic Church on Fransman Street in Promosa, which is experiencing significant water and drainage issues. Church members have reported flooding and inadequate drainage systems, disrupted services and created hazardous conditions for the congregation. These widespread water issues in Potchefstroom have left residents feeling neglected and frustrated. The JB Marks Municipality has been criticized for its slow response and apparent lack of action. Residents are calling on the municipality to take immediate action to repair broken infrastructure, clear clogged drains, and maintain essential public services. The community’s patience is wearing thin as they await concrete solutions to these pressing problems.

The municipality did not given feedback on or responded to the issues by the time of released.