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The DA in Mangaung Metropolitan Municipality is concerned with an unfinished water project in Botshabelo sections U and W.

Although the municipal water project has been on the Integrated Development Plan for several financial years, it has not yet been completed. The installation of water reticulation meant to upgrade informal settlements to address failing infrastructure in Botshabelo is now endangering the community’s lives.

Zero of the target number of 1000 households was achieved, and the municipality simply provided excuses for supply chain delays and did not re-advertise the bid. Residents in the area have complained that the trenches dug have not been filled. The trenches have however filled with water after the rainy season and pose a danger to the community.

The project was included in the 2021/2022 financial year and Service Delivery and Budget Implementation Plan (SDBIP) item. The completed project is aimed at connecting the area with water and sewage infrastructure. The target was never met, and the corrective actions on the SDBIP were indicated to accelerate completion in August 2022.

The DA will compile a report for the Human Rights Commission as the municipality is in contravention of Section 27 (1) of the Constitution, which states that everyone has the right to access (b) sufficient food and water. The DA is committed to change across the country and therefore urges all residents to register to vote in the 2024 National and Provincial Government elections.

Issued by David Masoeu - DA Councillor Mangaung Metropolitan Municipality