DA calls on residents to support water court action
DA uThukela chairperson, Cllr Thys Janse van Rensburg, says that affidavits will strengthen the court case.
As communities across the district continue to complain about water shortages, burst pipes and persistent leaks, the Democratic Alliance (DA) says it is preparing to take legal action to force uThukela District Municipality to provide residents with reliable and clean water.
This move comes amid growing frustration in several communities. Residents in Ward 10, Estcourt, recently reported experiencing water shortages for almost a month following a burst pipe, while concerns over inconsistent water supply have also been raised in other parts of the district.
Communities frustrated by ongoing water challenges
In response to complaints from residents, uThukela District Speaker TY Nqubuka and municipal officials recently met with members of the Colenso community, who expressed their dissatisfaction over ongoing water shortages.
Residents across the district have repeatedly raised concerns about prolonged outages, low water pressure and ageing infrastructure, which continue to affect daily life and local economic activity.
DA seeks court intervention
The DA in uThukela is now calling on residents to support a court application aimed at compelling the municipality to fulfil its constitutional responsibility to provide water and sanitation services.
According to DA uThukela chairperson, Cllr Thys Janse van Rensburg, lawyers have prepared supporting affidavits for residents affected by water supply problems. The affidavits will document residents’ experiences, including dry taps, low water pressure and the impact of prolonged water outages on households and businesses.
Residents encouraged to submit affidavits
Van Rensburg said the affidavits would strengthen the court case by demonstrating the extent of the water crisis affecting communities across the district, including Ladysmith, Estcourt, Bergville, Winterton and surrounding rural areas.
The legal action seeks a structural interdict that would require the municipality to develop and implement a court-supervised plan to restore reliable water supply.
Residents who have experienced water shortages are encouraged to complete and submit their affidavits before the deadline of July 2, 2026.
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