Mogalakwena moves to fix water crisis after widespread complaints
Some Magabaneng residents claim they've gone up to 19 years without reliable water, and an old diesel pump is finally being replaced with electricity.
LIMPOPO – Widespread complaints on social media from residents in Mokopane, Ga-Monare, Magabaneng, Pudiakgopa, Marulaneng, Galakwena, Jakkalskuil, Kromkloof, Kgalakwena and Taulome, among other areas, regarding prolonged water shortages and unresolved grievances have prompted Mogalakwena Municipality to intervene.
Municipal spokesperson Malesela Selokela confirmed that the recent water crisis in Ga-Monare was caused by a broken water pump, which was reported on July 23.
“The pump was assessed on July 30 and it was found that the pump had reached the end of its service life,” said Selokela.
He said the municipality had initiated the procurement process, installed a replacement pump and started testing the system to restore the water supply.
Some residents claim 19 years without water
Responding to allegations that some residents in Magabaneng village have been without a reliable water supply for up to 19 years, Selokela acknowledged the broader challenges facing water infrastructure, but said the recent acute outage in Ga-Monare was specifically linked to the failed pump.
He said similar interventions and inspections of water sources were under way in Magabaneng.
The municipality said it was determined to continue with urgent water interventions in various communities because residents deserve dignity and reliable access to water.
“Water is life, and no community can be expected to live without adequate water services, especially where infrastructure already exists but requires proper maintenance and attention,” the municipality stated in a press release.
Intervention teams deployed to worst-hit areas
The entity acknowledged that maintaining existing water infrastructure remains one of its biggest challenges.
In response, dedicated intervention teams have been established in the Bakenburg, Salem and Rebone areas, focusing on infrastructure maintenance and restoring water services.
The municipality is also addressing water challenges in Magabaneng, Pudiakgopa and Marulaneng Hospital View.
Diesel pump to be replaced with Eskom power
In Magabaneng, residents have experienced water challenges for several years due to an old diesel-powered pumping system.
The municipality has reached an agreement with Eskom to install a power line to the water source, allowing it to replace the diesel system with electrical infrastructure.
As an interim measure, a temporary pumping solution has been deployed to supply water to the reservoir for reticulation. Once the reservoir reaches the required level, water will be restored through the reticulation system.
Tank connections planned for Kromkloof, Galakwena, Jakkalskuil
The municipality has also addressed water-related challenges in Kromkloof, Galakwena and Jakkalskuil. A tank stand will be constructed and connections made to an additional tank serving the affected area.
Municipal teams will continue with connections in other affected areas and conduct a site visit to Nkgoru to verify reports that water services have been restored and assess the sustainability of the intervention.
Residents urged to report issues via ward channels
Residents experiencing water service challenges are encouraged to report them through their municipal satellite offices or ward councillors.
“These channels enable the municipality to receive, record and respond to service delivery challenges in an organised and effective manner,” the municipality concluded.
