SIYABUSWA – Residents of Siyabuswa in Dr JS Moroka Municipality, with a population of over 40,000, have been without water since March 26, following pump and electrical failures at the raw water pump station.
Locals have expressed gratitude for the recent rainfall, saying it’s the only relief they’ve had. “At least when it rains, we have some water,” said one resident, hoping for more rain as the crisis continues.
The majority of households in Siyabuswa use flushing toilets, making the situation even more difficult. Many are struggling with basic sanitation needs.
“We are nearing dehydration soon because we’re almost out of water. We pay levies here, so we hadn’t budgeted to buy water from trucks. The municipal water tankers haven’t been to our area, so we’re on our own. Doing laundry is a nightmare – now our children have to be mindful of what they wear because we don’t have enough water to get by,” said resident Mandla Ncube.
Municipal spokesperson Mmasabata Ramatsetse confirmed that the pump station remains non-operational, with the pumps still undergoing repairs in the workshop. She added that load reduction is worsening the situation, as pumping can only take place when there is electricity – resulting in very low output.
“The municipality apologises for the inconvenience caused by this incident and urges residents to use water sparingly,” said Ramatsetse.
She said it is not yet clear when the issue will be resolved or when the water supply will be restored. “In the meantime, we are supplying water via tankers while we continue working on the problem,” she added.
The cause of the breakdown has yet to be determined. Maintenance teams remain on site in efforts to restore normal operations.
