MMC Nketle slams misinformation on water restrictions

The community is cautioned against spreading misinformation on ongoing water supply interruptions in the City of Ekurhuleni (CoE).

According to Zweli Dlamini of CoE, the interruptions are due to restrictions implemented by Rand Water, whose reservoirs had dropped to severely low levels.

This follows messages being spread on social media platforms stating the water restrictions are because of credit control measures being implemented by the bulk water supplier.

MMC for Water, Sanitation and Energy Tiisetso Nketle said: “Matters about water supply and water quality are sensitive for many of our residents and businesses who rely on it for their well-being and livelihoods. The provision of water is a constitutional right in the Democratic Republic of South Africa. Thus, the City endeavours to provide a consistent supply to its citizens.”

Water supply stabilises

Water supply to the high-lying areas of Germiston, which were the most affected, has reportedly been restored, although some may still experience low water pressure.

Other areas that have stabilised are said to include Bedfordview, Daveyton, Tsakani, parts of Thembisa and parts of Kempton Park, Palm Ridge, Vosloorus and Zonkizizwe.

Elandsfontein, Tunney and Henville are said to still be without water and the supply to Klopperpark is discontinuous.

Communication sent by Rand Water to CoE on August 26 stated: “Rand Water’s distribution network is under severe pressure, with water demand consistently exceeding water supply. Over the past few days, this situation has resulted in very low levels in some of the critical reservoirs within three of our supply systems i.e., Eikenhof, Palmiet and Mapleton.

“Despite several endeavours to implement load-shifting from one system to another, we are still not able to salvage the situation. This has necessitated that we invoke our emergency protocol, with immediate effect, to retain the three systems.”

CoE, with other municipalities in Gauteng, is engaging with Rand Water to resolve the situation and devise technical solutions to prevent the same from occurring in the future.

Nketle concluded by calling upon water users to play their part by implementing water-saving measures in their own homes and businesses to reduce the demand on water supply.