Vaal Central Water has responded to the Nama Khoi Local Municipality’s concerns about a deepening water crisis since 2012.
The Municipality’s Jan Swartz, said in a statement, on Monday, a formal complaint was lodged at the Human Rights Council, requesting mediation between the Municipality and Vaal Central Water Board (VCWB).
In addition to lack of communication from VCWB, the Municipality spent about R3 million on water supply to residents.
The Municipality said this is over and above their water bill due to VCWB of anything between R2 – 4, 6 million every month.
The VCW acknowledges the concerns raised by the Nama Khoi Municipality.
Lindiwe Mnguni, Spokesperson of the Water Board, said in a statement “the Namakwa Regional Water Supply Scheme, which serves the Nama Khoi Local Municipality and other customers such as Eskom and local businesses, is owned and operated by Vaal Central Water. Built in 1978, the scheme faces significant challenges due to ageing infrastructure leading to frequent leaks along the high-pressure main line between Henkries Water Treatment Works (WTW) and Doringwater pump station. “
She said a 18000-liter water tanker was deployed to deliver water to affected communities during service interruptions.
In addition, there is progress in the Namakwa Regional Water Supply Scheme Renewal Project, including the Bypass pipeline at Bulletrap off-take, the replacement of 56 km 500Ø mm between Springbok and Steinkopf, the refurbishment of filters at Henkries Water Treatment Works and the refurbishment of River pump station.
A contractor was also appointed for further refurbishments, with work scheduled to begin in January 2025.
Upon completion of upgrades, the water challenges currently experienced by the Nama Khoi Local Municipality and other customers will be comprehensively resolved.
Picture: GCIS Northern Cape