The Democratic Alliance (DA) is calling on eThekwini Water and Sanitation (EWS) to act with urgency to address the ongoing water crisis in Verulam, Tongaat, Chatsworth and Isipingo. Despite efforts to dispatch water tankers, residents continue to suffer from intermittent water supply and inadequate assistance.
The water crisis in these areas have been ongoing for an extended period, with residents experiencing significant challenges in accessing clean and reliable water. Despite efforts to address the issue, the situation remains dire.
EWS response to the crisis has been inadequate, with water tankers failing to reach all affected areas. The lack of effective communication and unresponsiveness from officials to the public has exacerbated the situation.
Umgeni-UThukela Water (UUW), the service provider, has become uncommunicative and unaccountable. UUW has stopped attending war room meetings, and their lack of responsiveness has hindered efforts to address the crisis.
The following areas are currently affected by the debilitating water crisis which has been ongoing for months on end:
– Verulam
– Tongaat
– Chatsworth
– Umkomaas
– Isipingo
Complaints have now been lodged with the South African Human Rights Commission (SAHRC) regarding the water crisis in these areas. The Commission has noted the response regarding water tankers but highlights that the impact on communities and residents on the ground illustrates that they are not receiving the necessary assistance.
We call on EWS to take immediate action to address the water crisis in these areas, this includes:
– Ensuring that area managers take responsibility for dispatching water tankers to affected areas
– Providing effective communication and updates to residents on the status of water supply
– Holding UUW accountable for their responsibilities and ensuring that they are responsive to the needs of residents
– Ensuring that the meager water supply is not wasted and is utilized efficiently
The DA is committed to ensuring that the people of Tongaat, Verulam, Isipingo and Chatsworth receive the services they deserve. We will continue to monitor the situation and work with EWS to address the water crisis. We urge EWS to take urgent action to address the crisis and provide relief to affected residents.