Letter: Water crisis 'bordering on criminality’
THE Verulam Water Crisis Committee wrote to the newly-appointed KZN MEC of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs, Reverend Thulasizwe Dominic Buthelezi, to intervene in the ongoing water crisis.
I am writing on behalf of the Verulam Water Crisis Committee to express our deep concern about the ongoing water crisis in Verulam and surrounding suburbs.
The situation has become intolerable and is bordering on criminality on the part of officials in the eThekwini Municipality's Water and Sanitation section and Umgeni Uthukela. Many suburbs have been without water for over five consecutive days. This lack of water is causing significant hardship for the residents of these areas, affecting their daily lives and well-being.
The impact of this crisis is far-reaching and severe:
Health risks: The lack of clean water poses serious health risks as it is essential for hygiene and prevention of waterborne diseases.
Daily life disruption: Everyday activities such as cooking, cleaning and bathing have become extremely difficult, disrupting the normal life of residents.
Economic impact: Businesses, particularly those that rely heavily on water such as restaurants and laundromats, are suffering significant losses.
Education: Schools are struggling to operate without adequate water supply, impacting the education of our children.
Moreover, the Verulam Water Crisis Committee has requested meetings with the CEO, COO, and Chairperson of Umngeni Uthukela, who have not had the courtesy to respond. They are unilaterally limiting the supply of water to the Northern Aqueduct, thereby creating this humanitarian disaster.
We formally seek an audience with you, MEC, together with the leadership of your department, Portfolio Committee Chairperson, Umngeni Uthukela, and EWS as a matter of priority. This matter is presently being investigated by the South African Human Rights Commission (SAHRC) and Public Protector for Human Rights violations by the 6th Administration.
We are confident that you will not allow the people of Verulam to continue suffering under your leadership. We look forward to your prompt response and action on this matter.
ROSHAN LIL-RUTHAN
Communications Spokesperson and Liaison
Verulam Water Crisis Committee