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The 14-meter Leeuwrivier water barrier project in Hobhouse, costing R2 053 181.00, has been completed with alarming deficiencies, showcasing yet another instance of looted funds under the ANC-led Mantsopa Local Municipality. The Department of Water and Sanitation's evaluation revealed that the barrier failed to meet the required standards, highlighting the wasteful expenditure incurred in this project. 

Despite its recent completion, the water barrier was built incorrectly, located 4 meters away from its designated position, and lacked approved construction drawings by a registered engineer. The site's conditions were dire, with no official drawings, safety manager, or proper protective equipment for workers. The lack of adequate facilities forced workers, both male and female, to use the veld as a makeshift toilet, displaying a lack of labour dignity and respect for human rights.

The Democratic Alliance (DA) and the Leeuwrivier Water Association, responsible for supplying water to Mantsopa water works, strongly opposed this unnecessary project from the outset. The river had never faced severe water scarcity, and the barrier was deemed redundant. In fact, the Leeuwrivier Association had been diligently providing water through their canal system, even though the municipality was behind in payments for three months.

Moreover, due to the flawed positioning of the barrier, Mantsopa had to extend the pipeline by 4 meters, leading to increased head height in the pump. Consequently, the pump's size was inadequate for the additional length and height, causing damage to two motors within just three weeks, as reported by the Leeuwrivier Water Association.

Adding to the botched construction, the contractor, Serwale Constructions, failed to complete the gabions with proper mesh, opting to toss rocks into the water and cover them with temporary Geotextile fabric. This makeshift approach will result in the rocks being washed away, leaving the barrier vulnerable. Additionally, the structure lacks concrete capping, making it susceptible to being dislodged by strong currents.

The DA calls for immediate action to hold those responsible accountable. We will push for a thorough investigation into the mismanagement and financial misconduct surrounding the Leeuwrivier water barrier project. The DA will work tirelessly to ensure that projects are executed transparently, efficiently, and with the community's best interests at heart. We urge the residents to vote for change in the upcoming elections, as only with their support can we bring about responsible governance and safeguard public funds from being squandered on ill-conceived projects.

Issued by Lyle Bouwer - DA Councillor Mantsopa Local Municipality