We’re doing all we can – municipality to dried up Kagiso
Mogale City Local Municipality (MCLM) has urged residents of Kagiso especially to be patient while water restoration plans are taking place.
As Mogale City residents now face the full effects of a 58-hour Rand Water shutdown, Mogale City Local Municipality (MCLM) appeals to all to be patient.
As roving water tankers are travelling to most affected areas, the municipality would like to ensure its citizens that they are doing everything they can. The most heavily affected area at this point is Kagiso and during a visit from the Krugersdorp News team on Thursday, one could spot water tankers travelling to various areas, specifically extension 8 where residents were seen lining up to stock up enough water for the next few days.
The shutdown has affected the area so much that local businesses are operating under difficult circumstances which has resulted in some reducing their working hours.
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Lerato Mabalane, the owner of a catering business in Kagiso, expressed her frustration saying the shutdown has impacted business operations.
“Sadly there is nothing we do about this for now. Customers can not use our services if we don’t have water to clean up the place and ensure it’s a safe space for them to dine,” said Mabalane.
Other residents also voiced their anger.
According to resident Themba Hleza, the shutdown comes as no surprise as water shortages are very common in Kagiso.
“We are lucky to even see a water tanker here because when taps run dry occasionally we don’t receive help.”
According to Peter Modise, MMC for Utility Services in Mogale City, the 58-hour water shutdown is just part of a broader issue when it comes to water supply in Mogale City.
“There are over 38 wards in Mogale City and we have found that at least 25 wards are going through water and sanitation issues,” said Modise.
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Modise added that this is mainly due to various reservoirs being neglected and not being maintained whenever there is a problem. The reservoirs that have been identified to be the most affected are the ones which feed Kenmare, Munsieville, Dan Pienaar and Kagiso reservoirs.
As water restoration operations continue, the municipality further urged residents of Kagiso and surrounding areas to be on the lookout for the water tankers.
“The municipality will continue to provide water to affected areas using available water tankers while Rand Water continues to conduct its planned maintenance.”