The Department of Water and Sanitation (DWS) was aware of the breakdown of water services in Qunu, Eastern Cape recently. This was a truly unfortunate incident as people should not experience water cuts, thus negative impacts on livelihoods.
The reasons behind this water supply cut were varied. The one reason was the disconnection of the electricity supply as the initial connection fee was unpaid although the OR Tambo District Municipality was up to date with its payment for services as per usage. The connection fee has been paid and the electricity supply has been restored.
Another reason leading to this disconnection was cable theft between the borehole pump and the reservoir. The replacement cable has been bought and is now in place. The motor that was burnt has also been replaced.
All the necessary repairs to the infrastructure have been done. All the necessary electrical reconnections are also in place. As a result the requisite water services in Upper Qunu have been restored.
It is important to note that during this unforeseen situation, water tankers were used to fill the reservoir servicing the area.
Currently officials from the DWS are walking the water supply line to ensure that as the water supply is being restored, there is no unforeseen breakdown of the pipeline due to pressure from the restored water supply.
For more information contact:
Sputnik Ratau
Tel: 012 336 6813
Cell: 082 874 2942
