Taps and running water on the cards

MAYOR Patricia de Lille visited some of the 232 backyarders in Uitsig, Elsies River, who will have taps installed in their dwellings.

De Lille said that although many of the backyarders were on the housing waiting list, the water was provided to ensure that they live in dignity while waiting for proper housing. The backyarders are now no longer dependent on sourcing water from the main house, but have access to water through the smart-box system.

The smart-box system releases water when a special key is inserted. The device has been installed at 67 Uitsig properties in during the past month.

De Lille said contractors were also upgrading infrastructure in the community to enable the City to install flushing toilets in each of the 232 backyard dwellings.

“Today I met some of the residents benefiting from the City’s efforts. Johnny Smith, 62, a grandfather from Uitsig, told me about his plans to revive his own vegetable garden. Another resident, Reginald Lucas, 53, says his family’s life is easier now that they have access to cooking water instead of being reliant on the main house for water.

“It is heart-warming to know that the City’s efforts are improving the lives of our most vulnerable residents.”

De Lille said the City expected to spend R5.4million to provide water and sanitation services to backyarders in Uitsig.