TZANEEN – Frustration is mounting among residents in Modjadjiskloof, especially in Panorama, as recurring water shortages continue to disrupt households, businesses and public facilities.

Community members are now calling for urgent clarity on what is causing the persistent supply problems in the area.

Clinic without water for three days

The concerns intensified this week after residents reported that a local clinic in Modjadjiskloof had allegedly been without water for three days, creating serious difficulties for staff and patients.

Residents say the situation reflects broader challenges affecting the town’s water supply, with many households frequently experiencing dry taps or restricted access to water during certain times of the day.

Community members claim that some areas only receive water during limited periods, forcing residents to collect and store water whenever the supply becomes available.

At the same time, residents say they have noticed water continuously flowing along streets in parts of the town due to leaking infrastructure.

This has raised growing frustration among residents, who question why water appears to be going to waste while many households struggle without a reliable supply.

“It is difficult to understand how people can sit without water while there are leaks running day and night,” Melissa Strydom said.

What could be causing the shortages?

Some residents believe ageing infrastructure, leaking pipes and poor maintenance may be contributing to the ongoing shortages in both Modjadjiskloof and Panorama.

Others suspect that damaged infrastructure caused by recent heavy rainfall may also be affecting the water network.

Broader service delivery concerns

The issue has renewed concerns over service delivery under the Greater Letaba Municipality (GLM), with residents saying water interruptions have become increasingly common in recent months.

Residents say the shortages are affecting daily life in multiple ways, from cooking and cleaning to sanitation and healthcare services.

Concern for vulnerable residents

Community members also expressed concern about the impact on vulnerable residents, including elderly people and children who are forced to rely on irregular water supply.

The reported water outage at the clinic has further intensified concerns about hygiene and patient care.

What residents want from the municipality

Residents are now calling on the municipality to:

• Provide clear explanations regarding the source of the water problems
• Indicate whether infrastructure repairs or upgrades are planned to stabilise supply
• Assess how much water is being lost through ongoing leaks
• Consider emergency interventions
• Improve communication whenever water interruptions occur

Long-term solutions needed

Some residents believe long-term investment in infrastructure maintenance is urgently needed to prevent the situation from worsening.

Others have called for improved communication from municipal officials, saying residents are often left without updates or information.

Broader infrastructure concerns

The concerns come amid broader frustrations over deteriorating infrastructure and service delivery challenges in Modjadjiskloof, including damaged roads, overgrown vegetation and drainage problems.

Residents say reliable access to water is one of the most urgent issues requiring attention.

Municipality yet to respond

The Herald contacted GLM spokesperson Lovers Maenetja regarding the reported water shortages, leaking infrastructure and possible causes of the ongoing supply interruptions.

No response was received at the time of publication.