#WaterWoes: No respite yet for Port Edward, warns Ugu

The ongoing water woes in Port Edward and surrounding areas is reportedly putting a strain on the town’s economy.

Businessmen and those living between Southbroom and Port Edward, as well as the adjacent inland areas of KwaNzimakwe, Ezinqoleni, KwaXolo, Gcilima, Thelawayeka, Mvuntshini, Shobamdlanzi, Mbecuka, Florida, Nodalane, Shobeni and Mlozane areas have been without water for weeks.

Now Ugu has warned that supply is expected to be sporadic for the next four weeks.

Businesswoman, Nozipho Bulala told the Herald that she was considering laying off staff as she could no longer afford to keep her business running due to the lack of water.

“I can’t operate like this, I run a B and B and I cannot have guests when there is no water. This means I can’t generate money for salaries.”

A Munster resident pointed out that the supply problem  was affecting the inland areas more as it was more difficult for them to get access to relief supply.

ALSO READ: Two long weeks without water in Port Edward

According to Ugu,  supply to these areas has been affected due to the reduced treatment at the waterworks after a major mechanical breakdown at the abstraction pump station. This, said Ugu,  was as a result of flood water ingress laden with large stone pebbles and metal objects during last month’s floods.

Ugu spokesman France Zama has said supply rotation had been executed for all areas, including Port Edward. However, the Port Edward supply was further compromised by a pipeline break in Arbor Glade and a contractor has been assigned to effect repairs.

“A lead time of four weeks is expected for full operation of the waterworks. And in ensuring that there is minimal disturbance in supplying all communities, the municipality is alternating flow between the coastal and inland systems until such time we resume full production,” said Mr Zama.

The municipality has called for a high level of patience from residents concerning the above while it tries to restore water to the affected areas.”We further appeal to the affected communities to reduce their water consumption by 50 percent for prolonged supply,” said Mr Zama.

According to DA councillor Dave Watson There are at least three static tanks available in the Port Edward area.

“There is one at KFC,  one at the Port Edward Library and one in 8th street towards the south.”

Ugu added that water tankers were also sent to inland areas for relief supply.

HAVE YOUR SAY

Like our Facebook page, follow us on Twitter and Instagram