The Magalies Water Board spokesperson, David Magae, told OFM News that the claims are not true and they have since noted the reports with discomfort.  

Reports alleged, that as part of Magalies Water’s water resource management implementation plan – which was approved by the Department of Water and Sanitation in addressing water quality challenges in the Crocodile West Catchment –the Hartbeespoort Dam will be drained. Magae said Magalies Water has no plans of draining the Hartbeespoort Dam as alleged, which – if it was the case – would be contrary to the approved water resource management implementation plan.

"Magalies Water views the genesis of this media report as reckless, irresponsible, and unethical as, in its entirety, it failed to meet the basic tenets of ethical journalism. In a media statement issued on 25 May 2023, Magalies Water confirmed its three-year appointment as an implementing agent on behalf of the department and set out clear plans in remedying the water quality challenges which has beset the Hartbeespoort Dam and surrounding areas, as a result of the negative effects of the Hyacinth."

Magae said this has since caused unnecessary panic from the public, understandably as sustainable potable water of the highest quality in the North West remains a subject of interest among various stakeholders.

OFM News