KIMBERLEY – In a recent media statement, Thoko Riet, spokesperson for the Sol Plaatje Municipality (SPM), claimed that water supply had been restored to all areas in Kimberley at 04:00 this morning. However, the situation is far from resolved, as some residents still reported late in the afternoon and into the evening that they still have not had a drop of water.
According to Riet, the 91 megaliter dam at the Newton Reservoir was at a level of 13ft 2″ when the water was switched on, but it had already dropped to 12ft 11″ by 07:00 this morning. This significant decrease in water levels raises concerns about the sustainability of the current supply.
Furthermore, Riet mentioned that Riverton Waterworks is running with two high-lift pumps most of the time. However, it has come to light that there are actually three pumps at Riverton, with one being inoperable.
Another glaring issue highlighted is that the resolution to the water crisis is delayed by the procurement of filter sand to improve water production at Riverton. Riet stated that the filter sand should be received by Friday, but this leaves residents uncertain about the timeline for its installation and the subsequent improvements in water quality.
On average, it can take anywhere between 1 to 3 days to replace the filter sand in a single filter unit at a water treatment facility. However, this timeframe may vary depending on the complexity of the facility and the specific procedures followed at Riverton. Therefore, in the best-case scenario, residents should prepare to spend the upcoming weekend without water, as a minimum.
The consequences of these shortcomings are substantial. Residents in certain areas of Kimberley continue to experience low water pressure or no water at all. This can be attributed to how the city’s water network operates, which means that if sufficient pressure is not built up, some areas may not receive water.
In light of these ongoing challenges, it is crucial for affected residents to demand access to alternative sources of water from the SPM. It is unfair for citizens to bear the brunt of the municipality’s shortcomings without receiving adequate support.
While the SPM has called for water consumption to be monitored, it is essential for residents to continue using water sparingly in order to alleviate the strain on the already burdened water supply system.
In conclusion, despite the SPM’s media statement attempting to reassure the public, it is evident that the water crisis in Kimberley is far from over. Delays by the procurement process, unidentified issues with water pumps, and inconsistent supply leave residents in limbo.