Sannieshof heading for disaster due to poor reservoir maintenance – AfriForum

An investigation into the condition of the water reservoir in Sannieshof has led AfriForum to conclude that there is a real risk that the ongoing erosion of the infrastructure could cause severe damage to the entire water network. Such an event could interrupt the town’s water supply and cause serious damage to nearby properties.

AfriForum has expressed its concerns about the condition of the reservoir in a letter to the Tswaing Local Municipality. Parts of the reservoir and surrounding infrastructure have been leaking for some time now.

“The ongoing water loss is not only a waste of a precious resource but also threatens the structural integrity of the infrastructure. If the problem is not addressed, the reservoir’s foundation could weaken and give way. This could have serious consequences for the town’s water supply,” says JP Nel, AfriForum’s District Coordinator for Stellaland.

AfriForum’s Sannieshof branch, in cooperation with the Freedom Front Plus, has already cut the grass around the reservoir and cleared the site to make the area accessible. This community initiative provides the ideal opportunity for the Municipality to carry out the necessary repairs to the leaks and ensure the reservoir’s structural safety.

AfriForum has therefore called on the Municipality to begin repairs immediately and to conduct a comprehensive assessment of the reservoir’s structural integrity. If the Municipality does not have the capacity to do so, AfriForum further demands that its proposed Memorandum of Understanding be signed so that the civil rights organisation can work with the Municipality on solutions.

“The residents of Sannieshof deserve safe and reliable service delivery. The deterioration of critical water infrastructure can no longer be tolerated. This reservoir must be repaired urgently before widespread damage is done to the town and the entire water network,” says Nel.

“AfriForum will not hesitate to approach the Premier of North West and request urgent intervention to prevent further decline of essential infrastructure.”

Get involved with AfriForum today. Click here for more information.