The DA in Hoedspruit has launched a petition to demand that Maruleng Local Municipality (MLM) and Mopani District municipality (MDM) urgently address water shortages and poor maintenance of water infrastructure in the town.

The current water infrastructure is more than 20 years old and this has resulted in pipes bursting constantly and prolonged water disruptions. While Maruleng Municipality has previously indicated that Mopani District is responsible for water infrastructure it is clear that both municipalities are skirting responsibility for the poor state of water provision and water infrastructure.

The water shortages in Hoedspruit are further exacerbated by the rapid development and growth of the town and various dysfunctional and unfinished water projects by Mopani District Municipality, dating as far back as 2015.

The poor planning by MLM and MDM with regard to water provision means that water shedding is a recurring issue in the town when it is available.  The constant load-shedding also worsens the water shortages as both the Essex and Parma Pumps are on the same electricity distribution line and no water can be pumped.

The reservoir in use in Hoedspruit currently was built for use by the Hoedspruit Air Force Base but years ago, an agreement was reached to provide water to a much smaller Hoedspruit town. The town has continued to grow and the MLM and MDM have failed to keep up with the water infrastructure development to meet the town's needs. The reservoir is now no longer sufficient for the town’s water needs.

Through the signing of the petition residents can be assured their voices will be heard as we will escalate the petition to all spheres of government until all the residents of Hoedspruit have a reliable supply of water in their homes and businesses.

 

Issued by Marie Helm - DA Limpopo Deputy Leader