Washing at water points continues
The desperate pleas to save water have apparently not made much of a difference to some.
Elaine Rodway
DESPITE the urgency of the water crisis in Vryheid, it appears there are still some who choose to disregard the impending doom that will befall Vryheid once the proverbial well literally runs dry.
Following several reports of people washing their cars and laundry at the water points provided by Zululand District Municipality, the desperate pleas to save water have apparently not made much of a difference to some, as this inconsiderate activity has continued to take place.
According to Vryheid AfriForum Chairman, Andrè Van Der Walt, a decision was taken quite some time ago that AbaQulusi Municipality would erect signs, informing people that washing of cars and laundry would not be permitted at the water points. There are still no signs, despite the matter being addressed at a recent water meeting in Ulundi.
“When we see people washing their cars and laundry at the water points, we tell them they are not allowed to do so,” says Van Der Walt. “But people just say that there is no sign that says that.”
“We have asked the municipal traffic officials to police the areas, but they say that they can’t.” he continues. “We feel that it should be their responsibility as municipal officials.”
Concerns about public safety have also surfaced surrounding the water points where people have reported that some members of the public were targeting women and the elderly who were fetching water and intimidating them or robbing them, in some cases even demanding money for the water they were fetching.
“We pride ourselves on the safety aspect we have in place here at the Klipkerk water point” says Magda Victor, who has been overseeing the distribution of water from the grounds at the Klipkerk. “Those who feel unsafe at the other water points in Vryheid are welcome to collect here at the church between 11am and 2pm and between 4:30pm and 5:30pm on weekdays. We are also here from 11am to 12 noon on Saturdays and, if necessary, on Sundays after church from around 10:30am to 12 noon.”
“We need transport for water from big cities such as Durban, Johannesburg, Pretoria and Witbank,” adds Magda. “If anyone knows of trucks, big or small, or tankers returning empty to Vryheid, please contact me on 083 443 0870.”
