The number of gastrointestinal illness cases linked to contaminated water in Bronkhorstspruit has increased to 833, according to Water and Sanitation Minister Pemmy Majodina.
Speaking during a media briefing, Majodina confirmed that a further 27 cases had been reported in the previous 24 hours. Three residents are currently receiving hospital treatment, while no fatalities have been recorded.
The contamination has been linked to inadequate chlorination at the Bronkhorstspruit wastewater treatment plant, which reportedly supplied contaminated water to the community for approximately three weeks.
The City of Tshwane’s wastewater treatment plant has since been closed, leaving residents dependent on water tankers for their supply.
Majodina also raised concerns about residents storing water for extended periods and obtaining water from private tankers whose treatment processes may not be verified.
Authorities continue to face pressure over the contamination incident and its impact on the community, as residents seek access to safe and reliable drinking water.