Rand Water is reducing water supply if owing Municipalities continue to dodge payment.
The Merafong and the Ngwathe Municipalities, both in Gauteng, stand to lose the most.
On the 26th February 2024, Rand Water cut water flow by 20%, now it plans to cut another 20%, if payment is not forthcoming.
Makenosi Maroo, Spokesperson for Rand Water, says the water board, is owed a cumulative amount of R3 billion by Water Services Authorities.
A chunk of this amount is owed by Municipalities in the Gauteng Province. Emfuleni Municipality owes a whooping R945, 453, 844.18c to date and Merafong, some R846, 298, 900,58c.
“The payment patterns of municipalities have deteriorated to concerning levels that threaten the liquidity, financial performance, and sustainability of Rand Water.”
She said this is despite multiple means to get the Munis to cough up, including bilateral engagements and Intergovernmental Relations fora.
Siyethemba Mdletshe, Executive Director of Infrastructure at the Merafong Municipality, says water restricted by Rand Water, will result in low water pressure in some areas on the upper part of the network.
These areas will not receive sufficient water pressure, which may include no water supply during peak periods.
He says as a precautionary measure, the Municipality will provide water trucks to assist affected areas.
Look out for similar stories in our edition called “Water Feature”.
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