Central SA
Free State NUM calls for urgent resolution to water crisis in Matjhabeng─── ZENANDE MPAME 12:42 Tue, 29 Jul 2025
After six days without water, supply has finally resumed in Matjhabeng, but the National Union of Mineworkers (NUM) remains deeply concerned.
NUM in the Free State has raised the alarm over the severe toll the prolonged outage has taken on mining operations, workers’ safety, and the well-being of local communities.
Vaal Central Water embarked on a winter maintenance in Matjhabeng, which started on Tuesday, 22 July, and it included the servicing of breakers and testing of protection relays at Balkfontein, the cleaning of the collection channel, maintenance of transformers at De Erf, and pipeline isolation and scouring, aimed at clearing blockages and improving overall water flow.
We urge the Matjhabeng Local Municipality to urgently address and resolve this critical water shortage,” said Free State NUM Health and Safety Secretary Tetee Mohale.
“Miners are forced to work underground for over eight hours with severely limited water, often resorting to carrying just two-litre bottles into old mines with extensive travel distances to their workplaces.”
The health and safety of our members, both underground and in their communities, cannot be compromised. We need immediate action to restore a consistent water supply to both the mining industry and all affected communities, he said.
Meanwhile, the municipality issued a statement on Monday (28/7) that the De Erf KSB pump was delivering an adequate flow, and that pressure within the system was expected to improve gradually throughout the day.
Water supply to Hennenman and Phomolong was estimated to be restored on Tuesday (29/7) morning.
“Water has started coming through in parts of Welkom and Hennenman, which is a welcome relief after more than a week without supply,” said Matjhabeng Ward 32 Cllr René Steyn. However, pressure remains low in areas like Flamingo Park and Rheederpark.”
“Riebeeckstad in Welkom and Residensia in Odendaalsrus are still experiencing little to no water. Doorn South had high pressure this morning, but we have since received reports that it is dropping again.”
Worryingly, Ventersburg still has no water at all, the situation is improving slowly, and we urge Vaal Central Water and Matjhabeng Municipality to keep residents informed and ensure full restoration across all affected areas, she said.
