Vandalism, theft caused water crisis in Jo'burg

The Portfolio Committee on Water and Sanitation's Chairman Mlungisi Johnson says vandalism, theft and a lack of proper maintenance are causing South Africa's water problems. Image: MyPE

The committee visited Madibeng Local Municipality in the North West to get a first-hand account of the continuing water and sanitation challenges there.

Committee Chairman Mlungisi Johnson said theft and vandalism of water infrastructure weighed negatively on municipalities' budgets, as money had to be diverted towards the replacement of stolen parts.

The committee called on all stakeholders, including the community, the justice and crime prevention cluster and businesses, to work together to solve the problem.

Johnson said while infrastructure projects are necessary and welcome, as they will assist in solving problems in the municipality, maintenance of the infrastructure remains a challenge.

Maintenance crucial

"Maintenance of the infrastructure will prolong the lifespan of water supply infrastructure, and there is an urgent need for a collaborative effort by all government departments, from national to local level, to remedy this," said Johnson.

"While these challenges need urgent action, the committee noted the negative impact caused by the high rates of vandalism and theft of components needed to maintain water supplies are adding to the already critical challenges," it said.

Within Madibeng, the committee said it noted and appreciated various infrastructure projects underway, such as the R63.7m Wastewater Infrastructure Refurbishment Project and the refurbishment of water supply pumps at various areas.

The committee also noted progress in terms of water services and that the matter has been identified as a number one priority in the municipality's Integrated Development Plan (IDP).

The committee urged the provincial and national Departments of Water and Sanitation to improve their interventions within Madibeng and many other municipalities that have inadequate infrastructure to supply quality water such as the upgrading of infrastructure at the Rietfontein Sewage Plant.