PRETORIA - The City of Tshwane says it has budgeted R140-million to fix ageing infrastructure as residents grapple with chronic water shortages and leaks, leaving many without safe drinking water.
Mayor Nasiphi Moya says the funds will primarily be used for pipe replacement across the city.
"The next summer, we must work on the infrastructure. That's where we have failed dismally as a government, our infrastructure cannot even endure one incident,” said Moya.
She added that the city has invested in hydrants to curb water losses and is addressing long-neglected operational issues, including the construction of new reservoirs.
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Moya also acknowledged that insufficient water is being pumped into Hammanskraal and pledged to resolve the issue.
"When it comes to the Hammanskraal Water Project, I think we overestimated the technology and all the innovation that the plant had come with. So far, we have declared two modules and those areas have access to drink and safe water, except for Jubilee Hospital and the Dominican School.”
She said one of the key challenges is inconsistent supply from Magalies Water.
“Magalies is not giving us enough water to supply throughout the day to certain areas. There are areas that are fine, but there are areas where now we are building pump stations.”