Image Source: EWN
Tshwane – The City of Tshwane’s mayoral executive has announced a significant milestone in providing clean and safe water to Hammanskraal residents. Water supplied from the Magalies Klipdrift Water Treatment Plant has officially been declared safe for consumption following the completion of Phase 1 of the project last year.
This declaration comes after rigorous testing by the City, Magalies Water, and the Department of Water and Sanitation, confirming the water now meets all required health standards.
In a statement shared on social media platform X, Tshwane Municipality Mayor, Dr Nasiphi Moya, explained that Phase 1 involved purging the reticulation system, which previously relied on Temba Water Works, with clean water sourced from the Klipdrift Package Plant. The process, combined with thorough inspections, rehabilitated and disinfected the system to ensure its safety.
“The completion of the first phase of the project means that at least 12,5 megalitres per day (M&/d) of treated water will be supplied to various areas in Hammanskraal. The supply areas include Wards 49, 73, 74 and 75, specifically Mandela Village, Marokolong, Ramotse, Kekana Gardens (also referred to as Steve Bikoville), and Babelegi Industrial,” said Dr Moya.
This project is part of a long-term partnership between the City and national government to fulfil the constitutional right to safe water. Scheduled for completion by mid-2025, the four-phase Magalies Water Klipdrift project will gradually expand access to more areas. Upgrades to the Rooiwal Waste Water Treatment Plant (WWTP) will further enhance the reliability of the water supply.
The announcement also addressed historical injustices, including years of inadequate water supply and allegations of corruption linked to the Rooiwal WWTP tender.
“Earlier this week, the Special Investigating Unit confirmed that it has completed the first stage of its investigation into the Rooiwal WWTP tender. This has reportedly resulted in criminal referrals to the National Prosecuting Authority and disciplinary referrals to the City of Tshwane,” said Dr. Moya.
The City expressed gratitude to residents for their patience. It reaffirmed its commitment to working with Magalies Water and the Department of Water and Sanitation to complete the project’s remaining phases successfully.
The Mayoral Executive Committee in Hammanskraal also pledged to ensure the water supplied meets constitutional standards and upholds the community’s fundamental human rights.
“It was a joyful moment witnessing residents open their taps today. We are committed to ensuring that all residents in Hammanskraal have access to services delivered with dignity and respect,” added Dr Moya.
