Ratanda Ext 23 erupts in protest as residents demand water after weeks without supply
Frustrated by four weeks without a reliable water supply, residents blocked roads and clashed with police as they demanded urgent intervention. Motorists have been urged to avoid the R549 (Vaaldam Road) while authorities work to restore order.
Frustration over weeks without a reliable water supply boiled over on July 1 when residents of Ext 23 in Ratanda took to the streets, demanding urgent intervention from authorities.
The protest, centered on the community’s ongoing water crisis, saw residents blocking all entrances and exits to the township.
According to community members, many households have been without a proper water supply for the past four weeks, leaving families struggling to meet their basic daily needs.
The situation became increasingly tense as police arrived on the scene. Officers used tear gas and rubber bullets in an attempt to disperse protesters and reopen the roads.
Several people were allegedly injured during the confrontation, although the extent of the injuries could not immediately be confirmed.
As the protest continued, residents from other sections of Ratanda joined the demonstration in solidarity, calling for immediate action to restore water services.
Joana Mathebula said the lack of water had made everyday life unbearable.
“For weeks we have had to wake up early to search for water just so our children can bathe before school or so we can cook a meal. Water is a basic human right, yet we have been left to fend for ourselves. We are protesting because we have no other choice,” she said.
Norman Nkosi said the community had repeatedly raised the matter with the relevant authorities but had received little feedback.
“We have reported this problem over and over again, but nothing changes. We are asking for clean running water because people are suffering, businesses are affected and our dignity has been taken away,” he said.
Sarah Modise said residents would continue to make their voices heard until the crisis was resolved.
“Nobody wants violence or confrontation, but people are frustrated after weeks without water. We hope the authorities will come to the community, listen to our concerns and provide a lasting solution,” she said.
Motorists have been urged to avoid the R549 (Vaaldam Road) and surrounding areas, as all entrances and exits to Ext 23 remain blocked.
Alternative routes should be used until the situation has stabilised.
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