No threat located in Kroonstad water
In a recent video that is doing the rounds on social media, translucent worm like creatures can be seen swimming around in a glass of water. The person shooting the video goes on to state that they drew the water from a tap in Kroonstad area.
Upon discovering this footage, the Department of Water and Sanitation (DWS) immediately started an investigation into the matter, together with Moqhaka Local Municipality. The person who shot the video was found and samples were taken from the tap where the water was abstracted and taken to an accredited laboratory for testing. Samples were also taken from various houses in the area and also from surrounding areas.
It was discovered that the incident was an isolated occurrence and the water in the area was not contaminated. The lab technicians explained that Chironimidae larvae are sometimes found when a tap is not being utilized for a certain period. Given the recent rainfall that precipitated humid conditions, creates a conducive environment for flies and mosquitoes to lay their eggs inside a tap where it is moist. The larvae were then flushed into the glass in this instance. This happens in taps that are outside the house and easily accessible to insects.
Gerhard Janse Van Noordwyk, who heads the Drinking Water and Wastewater Management section in DWS, said that it would be impossible for the larvae to go through the water system. The pressure that the water is traveling through the pipes would shred the larvae and they would also not be able to survive chemicals that are used to clean water.
It is advisable to let water run out for a few seconds before pouring for consumption when using an outside tap.
Enquiries:
Tseliso Ntili
Cell: 082 552 5590
Larry Crisp
Cell: 082 554 7271
