Companies responsible for water pollution warned

PRETORIA: As the Department of Water Affairs launches National Enforcement Week, a stern warning has been issued to companies and individuals responsible for the pollution of the country's water resources and violating the National Water Act.

"The department views the pollution of the country's rivers and dams and the illegal abstraction of water resources as a serious transgression on the National Water Act and warns those breaking the law that action will be taken against them," said department spokesperson Themba Khumalo.

To kick-start the enforcement week, from 25-29 November, Water and Environmental Affairs Minister Edna Molewa is expected to conduct compliance inspections in Emalahleni (Witbank).

The Blitz Week will see a massive effort to clamp down transgressors, where enforcement officers will embark on a Zero Tolerance campaign, which will see action being taken against those responsible for water crimes.

"Department's enforcement unit, known as the Blue Scorpions will also conduct a number of raids on mines operating without Water Use Licenses, companies and farms polluting water courses and those illegally abstracting water from water courses," said Khumalo.

A series of similar events are planned across the country throughout the week.