Residents are heading into yet another festive season without reliable water, with many saying the supply crisis has now become an annual struggle that the municipality has failed to resolve for three years.

Residents report that parts of the community have had little to no water for nearly two months. According to Natasha Oosthuizen, the town’s supply has been reduced by 20%, reportedly due to debts owed by Rand West City Local Municipality (RWCLM) to Rand Water.

“I am afraid the issue will never be resolved, as it has persisted for three years. We pay our bills, yet we continue to struggle,” Oosthuizen said.

• Also read: More than a week without water – Venterspos residents plead for relief

She added that fetching water from tankers has become increasingly difficult: her husband was recently injured, and she requires hernia surgery, leaving both unable to carry heavy containers.

Annoshcia Koekemoer said many residents have repeatedly reported the problem without feedback. Some even follow water tankers around town because they do not reach all streets. She noted the situation is especially tough for elderly residents and mothers with infants, who struggle with limited access to drinking, bathing and cooking water.

Madeleze Coetzee said the daily physical strain of carrying water buckets is worsening her back problems. With no reliable supply, she cannot host a family for Christmas and described Venterspos as “a forgotten community”.

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Mapulane Neromba criticised the distribution of water tankers, saying some residents are prioritised while others are left without.

“The whole of Venterspos is affected, daily life is interrupted, and our health is at risk,” he said.

Other residents, including Daniel Botes and Sarel van der Walt, raised concerns about work disruptions and the potential damage irregular supply could cause to private toilet systems.

RWCLM was approached for comment, but had not responded by the time of publishing. An update will be provided once feedback is received.