The spokesperson of the Mangaung Metro Municipality, Qondile Khedama, says the water interruption is due to a water pipe burst. Technicians started working on the issue from Friday afternoon and they estimate repairs will take at least 24 hours, meaning water might be restored to the affected areas later this afternoon. The affected areas are Estoire, Vaalbank Zuid, Ribblesdale, Raceway, Olive Hill and adjacent areas. “Mangaung Metro apologises for the inconvenience this may cause,” he concluded.

ALSO READ: Water tests conducted regularly in Mangaung

The Acting Executive Mayor, Gregory Nthatisi, previously told OFM News water tests have been conducted regularly for areas which fall under the Metro after the recent cases of cholera in the country. Thus far, the cholera death toll in the province stands at one, while there have been at least eight positive cases in the province. Nthatisi said residents must not be alarmed as there is no confirmed positive case within the municipality and the water supplied to Mangaung residents is in line with national standards. “The community of Mangaung must not be alarmed as there is no positive case, however, we strongly advise that they follow the health guidelines made available by the Department of Health.”

The opposition party’s David McKay has previously alleged the municipality has six Wastewater Treatment Works (WWTW) out of the nine which are non-functional. “This dire situation allows untreated sewage to flow directly into streams and storm-water drains, causing sewerage mainlines to collapse and turning roads into rivers of filth,” said McKay.

Nthatisi explained that they are not oblivious to the fact that there are sewage spillages in the municipality and that the metro was not kept clean in the past. However, they are working on the issues. When it comes to the WWTW, he says a number of contractors have been appointed to treat them. “Our staff is committed to being on guard to ensure that our WWTW and the water remains in line with the national standards.”

OFM News