Why is my water brown? muni explains
Several residents have contacted the Review to complain about the state of the water in their area.
POLOKWANE – Many have opened their taps only to find brown water coming out and this has left them wondering how safe it is to consume the water…
One of the concerned residents, Mavis Mabitola, said she has lived in Penina Park for many years and has never experienced this.
“This was really bad because we had to wait several hours for the water to get back to normal and even then you’re left wondering how clean it really is.
“I have lived here for a long time and I have never seen anything like this. I am scared of the bacteria that might be in the water,” Mabitola explained.
According to the Polokwane Municipality Spokesperson, Matshidiso Mothapo, despite the water’s brown colour, it is still safe for human consumption. “Residents are advised not to panic, the water colour tends to turn brown as a result of a burst pipe in the area.
“During the effort to repair the pipe, mud may enter the pipe and affect the colour of the water. It only lasts for a few hours. Although precautions are taken to minimise mud getting into the pipes, it is an unfortunate eventuality,” Mothapo said. He further said residents must take precautions before consuming the brown coloured water.
“The municipality conducts samples on the water supplied to residents to ensure its quality and that it is fit for human consumption. Polokwane maintains its record of supplying clean drinking water,” Mothapo concluded.
