Madibeng water supply increases
Government has move rapidly to address a water shortage in Madibeng and has urgently implemented the interventions announced by the Minister of Water Affairs and the Premier of the North West last week.
This includes the installation of a third 600mm diameter pipe which will enable an increased flow of water into the system and will accommodate about 200m3 of water per hour. The additional pipe will increase the water flow up to 750m3 pumped per hour.
Water Affairs Spokesperson, Mava Scott, said “upon switch on today, the needs of more communities in the far flung and high lying areas who were experiencing erratic supply should now be relieved once the reservoir is augmented through the new pipe”. Government will continue to strengthen its efforts to improve access to water of all South Africans. The department has identified several other areas that may need attention now and in future and will be working around the clock to intervene on all problem areas.
Since the advent of democracy access to drinking water has improved significantly. As in the 2010/11 period, access to water infrastructure at RDP standards or higher sits at 95% while households with access to free basic water increased from 11.3 million in 2010/11 to 11.6 million households in 2011/12 – an increase of about 300 000 households.” “However, whilst Government acknowledges a number of challenges, such as the maintenance and refurbishment of infrastructure, we remain committed to work tirelessly through innovative and creative ways to provide water to communities.”
Through the Strategic Integrated Projects (SIP) 18 South Africa has a 10 year plan to address the estimated backlog of adequate water supply to 1.4 million households and 2.1 million households to basic sanitation. The water projects will provide new infrastructure, rehabilitation and upgrading of existing ones, as well as improve water management infrastructure.
All citizens must realise that South Africa is a water scarce-country. The access to and preservation of water remains a critical component of government’s development plan. “As a water scarce country, South Africa has made great strides in harnessing this resource in support of a strong economy and a vibrant society. Water is central to the economy, as it intersects various sectors and has been an enabler and foundation for planning and development. This is achieved through effective water resources planning, infrastructure development and service delivery.
Communities, business, society and government must join hands and work together to implement smarter water resource management. Households, business and public places are encouraged to implement methods to prioritise water conservation and also support local government by paying their water bill. Communities are urged to utilise the platforms that government has put in place, such as Izimbizo amongst others to engage and interact with officials to address challenges.
The department will continue to monitor the situation in Madibeng and surrounding areas and members of the community who still experience erratic supplies should please bring this to the attention of the municipality at this number 082 266 6051 or call the Water Affairs toll free line 0800 200 200.
Enquiries:
Mava Scott
Cell: 082 602 9640
