Multiple pipe ruptures intensify water crisis
Residents woke up to a second day of no water as well as video footage spreading like wild-fire, showing thousands of litres of pure drinking water flowing to waste next to our busy arterials.
Desperate appeals for water tankers and the availability of private boreholes were echoed on several community Whatsapp groups.
For a third time in a month residents stare the possibility of a water crisis in the face, following incidents of sabotage to valves including multiple pipe ruptures affecting the larger part of town.
According to messages shared by DA Ward Councillors, the following areas have been affected and are being tended to:
•Valves have been closed to repair the burst pipe next to Keiskamma and Dr Mandela Drive – the burst pipe shown on the video footage being shared.
•Groenkol, Mineralia and the CBD area is being affected due to a change-over to a 500 mm pipeline near Food Lovers Market.
•A burst pipe on the corner of Njala- and Sipres Street has been reported both yesterday and today.
•A burst pipe in Kanarie Street was reported yesterday and today.
•DA Ward Councillor Johann Dyason acknowledged that the burst pipe near the magasyn as well as the overflowing sewer manhole near the magasyn has been reported on multiple occasions.
The overflowing manhole has been pushing raw sewerage into the streets and the Klein Olifants in Mhluzi’s area for weeks as well as forming large potholes in Protea Street.
The ward councillors further assured that these ruptures are being repaired and once again called for patience under residents.
Several members of the community have availed their private boreholes to provide potable water to those affected. Their locations will not be published to spare them of possible intimidation, but is currently being shared on social media groups.
