The Association of Water and Sanitation
Institutions of South Africa (AWSISA) has expressed concern over polluted water bodies.
In a statement on Thursday, the Association said it is alarmed by the continued pollution of water sources by communities, municipalities, the agricultural sector and industries such as mining.
“Pollution increases the cost of water purification, leading to high water purification costs and affecting affordability and sustainability” said Dr Ndweleni Mphephu, Chairperson of AWSISA.
AWSISA has also pledged its support to the Water Anti-Pollution Forum, established by Pemmy Majodina, the Minister of Water and Sanitation.
In addition, AWSISA is calling for decisive action against polluters.
“Municipalities must also comply with legislated standards for wastewater disposal and employ qualified water professionals to ensure proper sanitation management. Poor water quality impacts negatively on human health, threatens downstream irrigation areas and food security” said Dr Mphephu.
AWSISA also said the deterioration of water quality cannot be separated from human rights.
Therefore, it is calling Government agencies to align policies and investments to secure long-term water sustainability.
Other solutions are for business and communities to adopt water-saving practices and invest in private water storage solutions.
In addition to scaling up awareness campaigns, AWSISA wants polluters to be prosecuted.
Picture of the Jukskei River, listed along with other rivers of concern, such as the Hennops, Kliprivier, Olifants river, Pienaarsriver, Apies and Crocodile Rivers.