Frustrated Glenharvie residents, who have gone 21 days without water, have staged two protests to demand urgent action from the municipality.

Resident Jeanette de Fortier said the area has faced recurring water shortages for seven years, with taps often dry for up to three weeks, seven to 10 times a year. Areas affected include Glenharvie, Zuurbekom, and Venterspos, while surrounding communities continue to receive water.

“Despite repeatedly reporting the issue, residents are met with half-truths and excuses,” De Fortier said. After a protest on October 17, the community discovered that Rand West City Local Municipality (RWCLM) owes money to Rand Water.

“It is not the residents’ fault if the municipality cannot pay its debts. We pay for our services. Why don’t they rotate the water supply so our area gets water?” she asked, highlighting the strain on households, clinics, and Grade 12 learners starting exams.

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Although water tankers are sent, De Fortier said deliveries are irregular and insufficient. Many residents cannot carry water due to age, illness, or work schedules, and not everyone can afford to buy water.

“This issue affects the entire household. The municipality cannot expect us to buy water for everyone,” she said, noting the impact on hygiene, health, cooking, cleaning, and even caring for animals.

Resident Danie Swart added that repeated complaints have not solved the problem. “Access to clean water is a basic human right, and we are paying for it. Authorities must act immediately,” he said.

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Amish Ulana said, “My child cannot attend crèche due to the water shortage. We live in unhealthy conditions and are worried about sickness and exams.”

Ward Committee member Elliot Thintwa confirmed Glenharvie had been without water for 22 days. “The protest was meant to get the attention of those responsible, but the issue remains unresolved.”

Residents protested again on October 21, with Natasha Erasmus warning of public health risks: “The water trucks are filled with rust, and not everyone has cars to fetch water. This is a serious health and human rights issue, especially for schools and clinics.”

RWCLM spokesperson Phillip Montshiwa denied that a protest occurred on October 21. He said the municipality is committed to restoring water and has arranged tankers, prioritising schools, clinics, and Early Childhood Development Centres.

Councillor Fred Steffers said that by October 22, Glenharvie had been without water for 23 days, with Venterspos and Zuurbekom also running low.

“Rand Water has reduced the municipality’s supply by 20%, and Glenharvie’s reservoirs are at 5% and 25%,” he explained.

Steffers urged the mayor to negotiate a payment plan, restore supply, and ensure schools and clinics have enough water.

He warned that if the situation does not improve, the VF Plus will ask the Gauteng MEC for Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs to intervene.

Read the Herald’s next edition, dated October 31, for the full story.