Warning of ‘catastrophic’ water crisis facing Merafong
The Democratic Alliance in Merafong has raised alarm about what the party describes as a “catastrophic water crisis” facing residents of the troubled municipality.
Merafong City Local Municipality owes Rand Water some R1.4 billion for services rendered.
The unpaid bills have led to the utility rationing the water supply to the area.
Rand Water spokesperson Makenosi Maroo said the municipality failed to settle its account with the utility, leading to a reduction in the water supply.
The municipality also missed a court-ordered deadline for submitting written representations to Rand Water.
Rand Water proceeded to reduce water pressure by 20%.
"This situation is highly untenable and destabilises Rand Water’s financial position, as it poses a direct threat to its long-term sustainability," said Maroo.
The DA’s Carl Steenekamp said the situation is deeply concerning.
"With summer coming and the demand for water set to rise, Merafong faces a catastrophic water crisis," said Steenekamp.
"The DA is working with our provincial and national representatives to push for solutions," Steenekamp, who added that residents of Fochville, Carletonville and surrounding areas are bearing the brunt.
According to the DA, Rand Water’s overall system storage fell from around 55% to just below 40% earlier this month.
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