Mangaung Metro has assured residents tap water is safe for consumption.

Residents of Bloemfontein's northern suburbs raised concerns about tap water quality earlier this month when they complained about its taste and smell. 

Concerns were raised over transparency from municipality, said DA Councillor Werner Pretorius. Comprehensive testing for contamination with untreated sewage at three vital raw water sources along the northern supply line Bloemfontein-Rustfonteindam, Mockesdam, and Maselspoort Modderrivier was undertaken.

‘The tap water is safe for consumption’

“Utilising a SANAS-approved testing laboratory, our tests revealed no unusual results above normal background levels in any of the three raw water resources. Despite valid concerns regarding taste and odour, the water has been confirmed fit for human consumption and within prescribed limits.“

Metro spokesperson Qondile Khedama reassured residents that the tap water is safe for consumption. Water quality in the reservoirs is monitored frequently. The brown, smelling water experienced in some areas was due to low levels in some reservoirs. Soutpan is one of the areas that experienced brownish water due to a pipe burst, and the water ran clear after repairs were complete.

Khedama urged consumers to use water responsibly to ensure uninterrupted provision specially during this high consumption season.

OFM News/Kekeletso Mosebetsi mc