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Residents of Parys, in the Ngwathe Local Municipality, continue to suffer from frequent pipe bursts, causing daily water shortages or leaving taps dry for days. For the past two years, residents have faced significant hardship due to the inadequate supply of purified water.

The Democratic Alliance (DA) calls for the installation of pressure reduction valves and air valves at critical points. Expert consultations suggest these measures would significantly reduce the frequency of pipe failures, thus improving the reliability of water supply to the community.

The waterworks system comprises three sections. The original facility, constructed in the 1950s, has a capacity of 5 megaliters per day, while a newer section, built in the 1970s, supplies an additional 10 megaliters. In 2016, a Trident modular plant was introduced to deliver a further 10 megaliters, but due to poor maintenance, it only functioned for three years before breaking down completely.

Currently, a contractor is upgrading the town’s water system with funding of R66 million from the Department of Water and Sanitation. The project faced delays initially, but progress is now evident as construction advances. During construction, a decision was made to bypass the sand filters and rely solely on chlorination for disinfection, producing a larger volume of water that, while safe, is not always clear.

While the river water is relatively clean during winter, requiring less chemical treatment and allowing for the bypassing of sand filters, the onset of rains makes the river water more turbid. Without the use of filters, the final water product becomes murky and unsuitable for consumption.

The DA is committed to ensuring a swift resolution to the water crisis in Parys. We will hold the municipality accountable for the proper installation of necessary valves and work closely with all stakeholders to guarantee a consistent and clean water supply to the community. The frequent pipe bursts and ongoing water shortages cannot continue — immediate action is required to safeguard the health and well-being of Parys residents.

Issued by Saal de Jager - DA Councillor Ngwathe Local Municipality