Tshwane Mayor, Dr Nasiphi Moya, officially launched the metro’s water stabilisation plan and commissioned 15 new municipal water tankers in Mamelodi on March 31.

She said that the introduction of these tankers in Mamelodi marks a decisive step in reducing reliance on outsourced water tanker services and builds internal municipal capacity, as she has committed to doing.

“This forms a key component of the metro’s broader water stabilisation plan, which is aimed at restoring a reliable water supply and strengthening the long-term system resilience of the metro’s water reticulation systems,” Moya said.

“The plan responds directly to ongoing water supply challenges affecting communities across the metro.”

It sets out immediate, medium-term, and long-term measures to stabilise the system, improve infrastructure performance, and enhance service delivery.

Moya outlined the strategic direction of the plan and the role of internal capacity in reducing costs and improving response times.

She said there will be security measures in place for the drivers of the water tanks.

“There is a risk of people employed by private companies who previously delivered water taking their anger out on drivers. Safety measures, including security escorts, will be put in place to protect drivers.”

The mayor was joined by MMC for Utility Services Frans Boshielo, Acting MMC for Corporate and Shared Services Alderman Hannes Coetzee, and MMC for Health Tshegofatso Mashabela.

Tebe Ramntshwane, a resident in Mamelodi, said it is a good thing for the metro to have its own tanker fleet, adding that the water shortage in Mamelodi is not a new thing.

“We have been struggling with these water trucks for some time now, and hopefully the drivers will deliver on time,” said Ramntshwane.

Another resident, Sophy Mahlangu, said water is life and it should be free.

“Tshwane metro must make sure that the truck drivers don’t [decide to make] extra cash by selling us water, [as] the previous truck drivers used to [do],” said Mahlangu, adding that the community will help make sure drivers are not harmed.

Mashabela promised that they will make sure “that everyone drinks clean water”.

She said all the municipal water trucks will be regularly inspected, as well as cleaned and disinfected.

“The source of the water must also be verified to ensure that it is safe for human consumption. In addition, routine water quality testing is compulsory for all water tankers, whether they belong to a contractor or Tshwane metro.”

Service providers who fail to adhere to this standard will face penalties as the metro remains committed to delivering safe, clean water.

She added that community awareness is equally important; residents must be encouraged to collect water from only designated and approved water tanks, and they must use clean containers when storing water at home.

She added that while water tankers provide a temporary solution, the long-term goal remains to build a reliable and sustainable water system that puts taps in homes.

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