Residents concerned over long-standing water leak and safety risks
It took a year to repair as the department battled to get parts.
Dan Pienaarville residents are raising concerns over a persistent water leak that has formed a mini dam on Kameelperd Avenue, posing both health and safety risks, particularly to children.
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The issue began with a burst pipe near a local water reservoir, which was followed by a prolonged leak. Due to delays in obtaining necessary parts, repairs took weeks to complete. However, more than a year later, the resulting water accumulation remains unattended, despite repeated reports to authorities.
To make matters worse, residents claim a fibre-optic cable is submerged in the stagnant water, adding to concerns about infrastructure damage.
“This is a serious hazard,” said resident Mitta Mthembu.
Many children use this road to get to school, and with a high school nearby, it’s a major safety risk. It’s unacceptable that this issue has persisted for so long.”
Ward 29 councillor Aloysha Jooste attributed the problem to ageing infrastructure.
“The entire city’s water system is deteriorating rapidly. These are old pipes, and decay is inevitable,” she explained.
The original pipe burst has been repaired, but the trench left behind remains open and waterlogged. “The main challenge was not fixing the pipe itself but reinstating the trench,” Jooste added. “The delay in closing it has led to the current situation.”
Jooste noted that financial constraints and resource shortages further complicate repairs. “Depending on the scope of work, the cost of replacing a damaged pipe can range from R8 000 to R12 000, with additional expenses for clamps costing between R1 500 and R12 000,” she said.
Mogale City Water Services confirmed in a statement that they are prioritising the site.
Water Services will pump out the accumulated rainwater and complete the restoration process,” the statement read.
Authorities also acknowledged the presence of underground communication cables within municipal servitudes and assured residents that relevant service providers had been notified to assess potential risks.
Additionally, Water Services is investigating a suspected natural spring in the same area, which may be contributing to the ongoing water flow. They emphasised that this is unrelated to the initial pipe burst.
With Krugersdorp already facing water restrictions and an ongoing water crisis, residents are frustrated that the issue remains unresolved. They continue to urge the department to take swift action before the situation worsens.
