A win for Ging residents as water is restored
AT their collective wits' end with constant water disruptions, Gingindlovu residents finally got some answers this week - and running water in their taps.
This after they banded together to file daily complaints to uMlalazi and King Cetshwayo (KCDM) municipalities about their plight.
“The absence of a consistent supply of water has had profound implications for us as residents,” said Joshua Ramiah.
“Basic activities, such as cooking, cleaning and personal hygiene have become increasingly difficult if not impossible to manage.
“The elderly and the children have been disproportionately affected, with limited access to clean drinking water.”
In addition, Ramiah said he is frustrated with the municipality's failure to inform residents about the duration of water interruptions.
“The residents of Gingindlovu deserve better. We have the right to expect basic amenities such as water and sanitation, which are fundamental to a decent standard of living,” he added.
Also displeased with coming home to empty taps is Shanel Niemack, who said, “Our pleas and cries for help are falling on deaf ears.
“Tankers are rarely ordered for us and if they are, there are only one or two to service the entire community.
“The tankers only go to certain areas and come when most of us are at work,” she said.
In a bid to address evident water issues in the town, KCDM on Tuesday hosted a meeting with the irate residents at Gingindlovu community hall.
We have the right to running water, say residents
The way forward
“The reason for the constant water problems was due to the plants not being serviced by uMngeni-uThukela Water,” said KCDM communications manager Thami Shangase.
“As a result, we have intervened and assured residents that KCDM will be taking over the plants to ensure they are serviced on time.”
“As of Wednesday, water in the area is restored.
“We would like to thank the residents for their patience, and moving forward we will communicate promptly whenever issues arise.”
According to uMlalazi Municipality, KCDM promised swift intervention by installing a new pump and load-shedding backup system.
“Part of the resolutions included bringing the excavator to the stream which was blocked by the debris, flooding properties in its proximity,” said the local municipality in a statement.