The DA in uMhlathuze urgently calls on the municipality to present a comprehensive report specifically addressing the Mzingazi Water Treatment works located in Richards Bay. We demand transparency regarding the current state of the facility, as well as a detailed plan outlining immediate steps to commence the much-needed upgrades.
We are deeply concerned about the deteriorating state of the Mzingazi Water Treatment works and the potential risks it poses to the community’s health. Our repeated concerns raised in the Infrastructure portfolio have prompted oversight visits to this crucial water treatment facility.
In the recently released Blue Drop Water Report by the National Department of Water and Sanitation, alarming issues pertaining to the facility were brought to light. The report explicitly states that the water quality does not meet the acceptable SANS241 standard and non-compliance with SANS 241 microbiological regulations poses a significant risk to community health.
To address these concerns and bring the water treatment facility up to an acceptable standard, an estimated refurbishment cost of R 103,277,900 has been projected. The City has allocated funds for upgrades and the replacement of the vital filter media in the 2022/23 financial year, and the report has been duly passed by the Bid Evaluation Committee. However, progress in rectifying the situation has been hindered by delays in the Supply Chain Management process for awarding the necessary contracts.
Delays in taking decisive action could potentially lead to a public health crisis, which must be avoided at all costs.
It is in this regard that we have requested the municipality’s detailed plan for upgrades, so work can start immediately.
The DA remains committed to the well-being and safety of the residents of uMhlathuze, and we will continue to hold the City accountable for ensuring that clean and reliable water is provided to all communities.