Deputy Minister David Mahlobo has raised concerns at the lack of electricity back-up capacity at the Rooiwaal Wastewater Treatment Works (WWTW), which has left large parts of Hammanskraal without reliable water supply for weeks.
Speaking during his visit to the Rooiwaal WWTW with some senior officials of the Department and the City of Tshwane, Deputy Minister Mahlobo said it was a serious concern that the treatment works did not have the electricity backup system that should kick in should it face challenges of electricity shutdown.
The treatment works was struck by lightning on 18 October, leading to the treatment of wastewater being severely affected. This happened as the City of Tshwane and the Department are working to revitalise the treatment works which is currently working below capacity. This has a direct impact on the quantity and quality of the Temba Water Treatment works which supplies part of the water required for Hammanskraal.
Deputy Minister Mahlobo said the water shortages had been enormous, affecting the community in general and especially the farming community. He said he had been informed that samples of the water supplied indicated that there were signs the groundwater was also contaminated.
He expressed his concerns about the time it had taken for the power to be restored, emphasising that water was important to members of the community, thus a quick turnaround time was crucial.
“There are certain sectors that are affected such as health facilities and education. This is even worse because of the heat wave. We should therefore intensify our efforts to supply water to communities by means of water tankers and also ensure people know when and where this will happen,” said Deputy Minister Mahlobo.
He further added that the Department in conjunction with the City of Tshwane will ensure that a Delivery Service Model is implemented as a way of notifying communities affected by water interruptions, particularly in terms of the times for delivery and delivery points. It was also important for such a schedule to be strictly adhered to.
DM Mahlobo also met with senior staff at Jubilee Hospital, expressing regret at the water challenges. He directed and committed that the Department, together with the City of Tshwane, will ensure that the Hospital and surrounding areas are provided with good quality water while work to capacitate the Rooiwaal Wastewater Treatment Works is fast-tracked.
Enquiries:
Sputnik Ratau
Cell: 082 874 2942
