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'No quick fix'
Polokwane Observer
|March 19, 2026
There is no immediate or permanent solution to the water crisis facing Polokwane, as current supply sources are only able to meet about 68% of the city's daily demand.
The municipality requires approximately 174 million litres of water per day, but current supply stands at 118.15 million litres, leaving a significant shortfall.
In response, Water Deputy Minister David Mahlobo, the Premier Dr Phophi Ramathuba, Mayor John Mpe and bulk water supplier Lepelle Northern Water (LNW) have formed a water war room to address the crisis.
The team says progress is being made through short, medium and long term plans developed by engineers and strategists, including municipal manager Thuso Nemugumoni.
Speaking at a media briefing last Wednesday, LNW board chairperson Dr Nndweleni Mphephu supported concerns raised by Mpe and Ramathuba about illegal connections to water infrastructure.
This story is from the March 19, 2026 edition of Polokwane Observer.
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