The Driekoppies Water Treatment Plant project is set to bring relief to the community soon.

The water and sanitation deputy minister, David Mahlobo, alongside MEC for co-operative governance, human settlements and traditional affairs, Speed Mashilo, Ehlanzeni District mayor, Cllr Terra Shabangu, and Nkomazi Local Municipality executive mayor, Cllr Phindile Magagula, conducted an oversight visit to the Driekoppies Regional Bulk Water Scheme on October 30 to monitor the recent upgrades and ensure operational improvements.

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The visit came at a critical time amid ongoing water shortages in the region. It formed part of ongoing efforts to ensure the acceleration of water and sanitation projects, especially in areas that are experiencing challenges due to inadequate infrastructure.

Community members said that they were happy when the initiative was launched, but to this day their taps have no water.

There had previously been delays in completing water projects, along with infrastructure vandalism and equipment theft, which caught the government’s attention and led to intervention through the upgrade of the multimillion rand infrastructure project.

This essential project, funded by the Department of Water and Sanitation (DWS), is designed to deliver clean and reliable water to 14 villages around Driekoppies, serving a population of close to 190 000 people.

Thandi Mahlalela (52), a mother of four, said that there are water tankers in the area, but added that many residents are elderly, and unable to fetch water for their homes.

“Sometimes water in the tankers is not enough for everyone and we cannot live without water. We hope the visit of government leaders will bring better changes and fast-track the completion of the project,” said Mahlalela.

Mahlobo acknowledged that the project has faced some challenges, which have delayed completion.
“Government is committed to overseeing and monitoring this project to ensure that safe drinking water is accessible to all residents.”

He said the DWS has established a task team dedicated to monitoring the project, and it is expected to give a progress report each month.

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Mashilo commended the stance of collaborative work to ensure the effective implementation of bulk water and sanitation projects.

“The upgrading of the water treatment scheme will improve the availability and supply of drinking water to various nearby villages. We promise to ensure the provision of equitable and excellent quality water, as well as dignified sanitation for all,” said Mashilo.

He called on community members to report any infrastructure vandalisation to the police.