Olifantspoort water plant to blame for change in city’s water colour

POLOKWANE – The Olifantspoort water treatment plant, which is situated 50km east of Lebowakgomo, has been experiencing problems with its water quality, and this is the reason for the recent change in the water colour in Flora Park, the municipality confirmed.

“The brown colour originated from the Olifantspoort plant, but results of samples analysed for full South African National Standards (SANS) chemical by Lepelle Norther Water showed that there was never a health risk to residents. A sample was taken last Friday in Flora Park where there was brown coloured water and the results showed that the water is safe to drink. We will however continue to take frequent samples in the area as we do at all our plants,” Malesela Maubane, a municipal spokesperson explains.

This comes after residents reported that the water in some parts of Flora Park was brown and appeared dirty last Wednesday.

Rosette Nelwamondo, who lives in Kiaat Street, said she shuddered when she saw the colour of the water.

“It looked dirty and disgusting. My aunt does the washing every Wednesday, and when she filled the bath to start the washing, she noticed the colour of the water. Although she had no option but to use this water for the washing, we had to buy water for drinking and cooking purposes,” Nelwamondo said.

She said the municipality was at her house last Friday to get a sample of the water, but the water was clear again.

“They gave me their contact details so I can contact them when the water is brown so they can collect a sample. On Saturday, the water was brown again, and I kept a glass for them. They collected it the following day.”

According to Maubane, the city’s water remains of high quality and the municipality is committed to ensuring it is well maintained.

For general water and sanitation issues, residents can call (015) 290 2376 or (015) 290 2537 for specific water quality issues.