JOC formed in Moqhaka Municipality
The Moqhaka Local Municipality on 20 May 2016 held the first Joint Operation Centre (JOC) meeting in Kroonstad. The JOC is established to rope in all members from the public and private sectors to assist Moqhaka Local Municipality regarding water shortages due to the drought.
The JOC consist of The Department of Water and Sanitation (DWS), Moqhaka Local Municipality, Rand Water, Department of Health, Department of Social Development, Department of Justice, Department of Education, Capitec Bank, Concerned Business People of Kroonstad, CC Chickens and South African National Defence Force.
These public and private entities were all called together to see how best everyone can assist in the drought situation as the Kroonstad water supply is deemed to be running dry. The Vals River that feeds Moqhaka Local Municipality is running dry due to minimal rainfall. Discussions led to a request for stricter water restrictions that the municipality will review.
The entities were also made aware of the work already being implemented such as the supply of Jojo tanks to key areas such as schools and clinics, water tankering from 4 tankers supplied by DWS to these jojo tanks, Geohydrology studies for ground water, refurbishing existing boreholes and drilling for new ones.
The private companies have also pledged to come up with ways in which they can assist, be it in the form of donating water or drilling of boreholes. Some members who have boreholes have pledged to donate this water to be tankered to the Jojo tanks; however the water will have to be tested for quality by Rand Water first.
Given the serious extent of the situation the JOC will sit weekly to assess the work done and get feedback on the availability of water in the municipal area. Most importantly the DWS is appealing to every individual to use water sparingly and adhere to water restrictions, as well as efficient water use practices including not filling swimming pools, or watering their gardens during these challenging times.
Enquiries:
Tseliso Ntili
Provincial Head Free State
Cell: 082 8033204
Larry Crisp
Communications Officer
Cell: 073 163 1400
