Serious bacterial contamination is rendering the drinking water in Deneysville unfit for human consumption, and the DA is demanding immediate action from the Metsimaholo Local Municipality.

The DA has already submitted written questions to the municipal manager and plans to place the urgent issue on the agenda at the next council meeting.

Independent water quality tests conducted on February 11 showed that the water far exceeds the South African National Standard (SANS 241:2015) microbial limits.

The test results are alarming: Total Plate Count (bacteria): The SANS limit is <1,000 CFU/ml. The tested water showed >14,300 CFU/ml – almost 14 times higher than permissible.

Total Coliforms: SANS sets a limit of <10 CFU/100ml. The test showed >80 CFU/ml – eight times higher than acceptable.

These results indicate severe contamination, poor water treatment, or possible bacterial regrowth in the distribution network. Although coliforms can occur naturally, they often indicate faecal contamination and increase the risk of disease.

“The community’s right to clean water is being violated, and the health of residents is at risk,” the DA said. “We will follow up on this matter at all levels of government until the water is safe to drink.”

The party is calling for immediate corrective action to protect residents from further health hazards.