The disruptions are the result of ongoing and planned maintenance operations aimed at improving ageing water infrastructure, said municipal spokesperson Jeanette Tshite.

In the latest update, the municipality issued a notice warning of urgent repair work at the intersection of Maphongo and Lekhele Streets on Monday (14/7). Beginning at 08:00, the maintenance has caused a temporary water outage in Ikageng, excluding its extensions.

Tshite urged residents to make the necessary preparations, including storing sufficient water in anticipation of further maintenance-related supply cuts.

OFM News has previously reported on widespread planned maintenance efforts, including water pump overhauls, which have often exacerbated public dissatisfaction.

These frustrations have reignited calls for the disbandment of JB Marks, a result of the 2016 merger between the Tlokwe and Ventersdorp Municipalities.

Critics of the merger argue Tlokwe inherited the financial and administrative woes of the smaller Ventersdorp, compromising service delivery across the board.

They say Tlokwe inherited the financial crises of Ventersdorp and this proves difficult for the municipality named after ANC struggle icon JB Marks to thrive and deliver better basic services to the people as envisaged in the local government legislative framework.

OFM News/Kekeletso Mosebetsi cg