Residents threaten to strike for clean water
Residents of Gedlembane are complaining about poor service delivery, including scarcity of water and pothole-ridden roads. A reliable source said water taps installed in the village years ago are still dry and have not produced any water.
DAANTJIE – Residents of Gedlembane are complaining about poor service delivery, including scarcity of water and pothole-ridden roads. A reliable source said water taps installed in the village years ago are still dry and have not produced any water.
They rely on water trucks and these are not enough to serve the whole community. Those who cannot reach where the water trucks operate are forced to use dirty water from the river for washing and drinking, and have to cross the Mluti River which poses a danger of drowning.
“Water is the most important source of life, but it is hard for us to get clean water. I usually use water from the river knowing that it is not healthy, but I do not have a choice,” said Gogo Maria Zulu, one of the roads.
It is alleged that an eight-year-old girl was infected by cholera because of the frequent use of dirty water.
“The truck always arrives while I am still at work, so I am obliged to use dirty water,” added Zanele Dhladhla. People end up insulting and pushing one another in an attempt to get water from the trucks before it is finished.
The residents also complained about potholes and slippery roads during rainy seasons in the area. The community is threatening to strike because of poor service delivery.
This newspaper tried several times to get hold of the municipality’s spokesperson, Mr Joseph Ngala, but he was not available.
