Bloem Water has announced that it has greenlit the release of raw water from Rustfontein Dam to Mockes Dam, allaying fears of imminent water shortages in the metro, which includes Bloemfontein, Botshabelo and Thaba’ Nchu. Bloem Water spokesperson, Kido Thoabala, reveals Mangaung has committed to honouring their agreement, but does not divulge much what said agreement entails.

The DA councillor for Ward 44, Selmé Pretorius, said in a message to residents that the head of the Free State Department of Water and Sanitation, Tseliso Ntili, confirms water was released to the Mockes Dam just after 10:00 on Friday morning. It has been reported that Mangaung has not paid its current bill which excludes the ongoing dispute for the last three months. Mangaung and the water board have long been engaged in a protracted battle over alleged non-payment on the part of the Metro.

Meanwhile, the Mangaung Metro, has also confirmed the release of the raw water, but explains that “due to the low river levels and the current heatwave”, certain areas in the north of the Free State capital may continue to experience water interruptions for at least the next 24 hours. These include Pentagon Park, Lilyvale, Bayswater, Dan Pienaar and parts of the city centre. 

Spokesperson Qondile Khedama says jojo tanks will be dispatched at key locations in the north. These include the Dutch Reformed Church in Albrecht Str, Dan Pienaar, near Heuwelsig Spar, Bayswater – near Shell Garage (Baysvillage).

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