Neelam Rahim | neelam@radioislam.co.za

3-minute read
25 October 2024 | 16:47 CAT

DA Gauteng provincial leader Solly Msimanga and Gauteng premier Panyaza Lesufi Image: Freddy Mavundla

Despite ample water in South Africa’s catchment systems, Gauteng faces a severe water crisis driven by an ageing infrastructure and poor maintenance. DA Gauteng leader, Solly Msimanga, has challenged Premier Panyaza Lesufi to a public debate, urging the provincial government to take decisive action to prevent a disaster comparable to the province’s electricity crisis.

In an interview with Radio Islam International, Msimanga emphasized that the water shortage is not due to insufficient supply but the inability to treat and distribute water effectively. “It’s not about water availability. We have enough water in Gauteng’s dams and rivers to last at least four years, even without the Lesotho Highlands Water Project,” said Msimanga. “The real problem lies in our inability to transport, store, and distribute treated water efficiently.”

He expressed concerns that the water infrastructure is crumbling, with municipalities struggling to repair leaks and address illegal water connections. Municipalities reportedly lose 40-48% of water due to burst pipes and unaddressed underground leaks. These losses render municipalities financially unsustainable, as they pay for water they cannot recover or distribute.

“The challenge is like the electricity crisis we saw years ago. If left unaddressed, the water crisis will have the same devastating impact, costing jobs and billions in revenue,” warned Msimanga.

Premier Lesufi has assured residents that Gauteng will not experience a “Day Zero” over the festive season, but water experts caution that the situation is critical. Severe water restrictions or supply disruptions may occur unless urgent measures are implemented within the next month.

Msimanga criticized the lack of coordination among provincial and municipal authorities. “Municipalities blame Rand Water, Rand Water blames Johannesburg Water, and the mayor’s office blames a lack of funds. This finger-pointing must stop,” he said. “We need a united strategy with clear responsibilities and adequate funding to overhaul the water infrastructure.”

The DA is pushing for a provincial infrastructure master plan to address maintenance issues comprehensively. Msimanga stressed the importance of bringing together all stakeholders, including mayors, municipal managers, and MECs, to prevent a looming water disaster in the next three to four months.

“Water, water everywhere, yet not a single drop to spare,” Msimanga concluded.

Listen to the full interview on The Daily Round Up with Moulana Junaid Kharsany and Solly Msimanga here.