Frustration as city goes weeks without water

The water crisis in Polokwane has reached boiling point as weeks of dry taps and prolonged planned maintenance shutdowns leave thousands of residents across the city and Seshego without consistent supply.

- Raeesa Sempe

What was initially presented as a series of 48-hour shutdowns by Lepelle Northern Water (LNW) has spiralled into almost week-long lack of water supply, with no end in sight.

Residents are angry, businesses are struggling and confidence in both the bulk supplier and the Polokwane Municipality is collapsing.

Two weeks ago, residents in large parts of the city including Penina Park, Flora Park, Ivy Park and other areas endured almost six days without a drop of water.

The latest shutdown, initially scheduled for October 15-16, once again dragged on well beyond the promised time frame, leaving reservoirs dry and residents furious.

Polokwane Observer spoke exclusively to both entities for answers to the deepening water crisis.

LNW responds

LNW maintains that the interruptions form part of a long-term upgrade to the ageing Olifantspoort Scheme, which it says will "enhance the assurance of supply" once complete.

"The contractors appointed by LNW are highly qualified to execute the project works," said LNW spokesperson Joe Makhafola.