DELMAS – In a bid to avert a severe water crisis, the Victor Khanye Local Municipality is rallying against a looming 20% reduction in water supply by Rand Water. Mayor Vusi Buda confirmed ongoing negotiations with Rand Water in an exclusive interview with the Highveld Chronicle, with the aim of securing a favourable resolution to prevent water restrictions that could severely impact residents.
Mayor Buda emphasized the municipality’s dedication to resolving the situation: “At the moment, there’s no agreement, but discussions are ongoing. Our administration is actively engaged in meetings with Rand Water, and we are doing everything we can to prevent any throttling.” Despite the municipality owing R386,947,508.31 to Rand Water, Buda remains optimistic about reaching an agreement.
Diane Bath, Ward 8 Councillor for areas including Eloff, Sundra, and Rietkol, echoed Mayor Buda’s sentiments, emphasizing the urgency of the negotiations. “The DA has submitted a petition urging Mayor Buda to take immediate action to prevent a reduction in water supply,” Bath stated. The petition, which includes community input regarding the potential impact of the reduced supply, has been acknowledged by Rand Water.
The municipality’s debt to Rand Water, which has been accumulating since 2018, poses a significant threat to the water supply. Bath highlighted the gravity of the situation, It is very concerning that Rand Water wants to throttle the inflow by 20% due to the outstanding balance. The debt has been a lingering issue, and now it seems the residents will bear the brunt of it.”
Victor Khanye Local Municipality relies on two primary water pipelines: the Bloemendal Pipeline, which serves Delmas and parts of Botleng, and the Modder B pipeline from Springs, which relies on a pumping station. A 20% reduction would severely disrupt water supply, particularly in areas like Sundra, Rietkol, Eloff, and parts of Botleng, where residents already experience water shortages.
Residents have expressed their frustration over the water situation. Donalle Schoeman of Rietkol shared that her family had to purchase three 2400-litre Jojo tanks to manage intermittent water supply. Nomusa Maseko of Botleng Extension 6 described the difficulty of storing water in containers when it becomes available. Nhlanhla Vilakazi, a resident of Eloff, highlighted the impact on property values and quality of life, noting that her rental property in Extension 3 often remains vacant due to water issues. “The reduction in water supply isn’t just inconvenient but could potentially become a human rights issue, especially affecting hygiene and access to clean water in Delmas,” Vilakazi stated.
Rand Water defended its decision, citing the municipality’s persistent failure to pay for bulk water services, which violates the Water Services Act 108 of 1997. The utility claims that the reduction is necessary to protect its financial sustainability and ability to provide bulk water services on a national scale.
As negotiations continue, both the ANC-led municipality and the DA opposition are united in their efforts to find a solution.
