The Democratic Alliance in the Northern Cape welcomes the commitment from the Green Scorpions to investigate harmful water use practices by the Kgatelopele Local Municipality.
Residents of Daniëlskuil are currently suffering from environmental harms perpetuated by the municipality, including the discharge of effluent from the Omega Pump Station into the Daniëlskuil Pan. This pan is used by residents for recreational activities, as a source of fish, and as drinking water for livestock. Surrounding smallholdings also use groundwater for domestic purposes.
Unfortunately, there remains questions about the quality of this water. Last year’s Green Drop Watch Report confirmed that wastewater treatment systems in Daniëlskuil are deemed critical, with the Blue Drop Watch Report adding that the municipality does not meet microbiological safety standards.
Residents must also bear the brunt of overflowing drains and raw effluent spilling from one of the trucks used by the municipal sanitation department, which creates puddles of untreated sewage in every street it travels.
In addition, from September 2020 onwards, it seems that a sewage dam has re-occurred near the Kuilsville pump station.
The ensuing risks to community health simply cannot be ignored. I have therefore requested that the Green Scorpions must come to residents’ rescue.
Municipal water supply in Daniëlskuil has also become increasingly erratic, creating further difficulties for residents who struggle to get feedback from the municipality. This has been referred to the relevant portfolio committee at the Northern Cape Provincial Legislature and we are waiting for the chairperson to commit to oversight.
After all, every member of every community has the right to clean water and a healthy environment.