ANC-EFF coalition pay lip service to the water crisis in Ekurhuleni

By Cllr. Lornette Jospeh: DA City of Ekurhuleni Caucus Deputy Chief Whip

Date: 15 November 2024
Release: Immediate

The Democratic Alliance (DA) in the City of Ekurhuleni is disappointed, but not surprised, by the ANC-EFF doomsday coalition blocking a DA sponsored motion to take decisive steps in addressing the current water crisis plaguing the city.

The DA motion sought to ensure that not only are Level One water restrictions enforced by the city — but that ailing and collapsing infrastructure is replaced and repaired timeously to reduce water waste.

While residents and businesses are required to reduce consumption, unattended leaks, burst pipes — coupled by a lack of adequate maintenance has led to the city being the main contributor of water waste.

The DA recommended the city focus on clamping down on illegal connections, replace broken meters, and ensures that all leaks are prioritised — with a turnaround time for repairs taking place within 3–6 hours of being reported.

It was also recommended that the City, where feasible, establish a dedicated telephone line to help identify and report water leaks, water wastage, and contraventions of restrictions.

The MMC for Water and Sanitation, Cllr. Thembi Msane was adamant that the current Service Level Agreement (SLA) of 48 hours to repair a leak is sufficient.

It is not.

Given the severity of the current water crisis, it is unfathomable that this Doomsday Coalition is content knowing that hundreds of thousands of litres of water continues to be lost while many areas in the city run dry daily.

Will this ANC-EFF coalition only react when our taps have completely run dry?

The DA will not turn our backs on residents in the face of this crisis. We will continue to fight for the provision of services.

Media enquires:

Cllr. Lornette Joseph
DA City of Ekurhuleni Caucus Deputy Chief Whip
083 847 4510