The City of Tshwane is urging residents of Hammanskraal to refrain from consuming water supplied by the newly launched Klipdrift Magalies Water Package Plant after a series of complaints regarding poor water quality. The affected areas include Wards 49, 73, 74, and 75, encompassing communities such as Mandela Village, Marokolong, Ramotse, Kekana Gardens (Steve Bikoville), and Babelegi Industrial.
The city’s alert follows an interruption in water supply on 5 February at the Magalies Water-operated plant, attributed to power disruptions. This incident has raised significant concerns about the safety and quality of the water being distributed to residents.
Mayoral spokesperson Zintle Mahlati addressed the issue, pointing out the stark contrast between current concerns and laboratory tests conducted during the previous month, which indicated safe water quality. “The safety of our residents is our top priority, and while previous tests showed no issues, we take these recent complaints very seriously,” Mahlati stated.
In response to the situation, the city has embarked on an urgent plan to rectify the quality concerns. “Immediate steps were taken to flush the system to remove potential contaminants. This process was completed on the 12th of February, and we have sent water samples for further laboratory analysis,” Mahlati informed citizens. Results from these tests are expected by 14 February, with the city promising to keep its residents informed following the findings.
This incident has raised alarms in a community already grappling with water supply issues, highlighting the ongoing challenges faced by local authorities in providing clean and safe water. Residents have been advised to seek alternative sources of potable water until further notice.