Mashatile visits Bronkhorstspruit after water illness outbreak

Deputy President Paul Mashatile is in Bronkhorstspruit, in the City of Tshwane, on Monday to see first-hand how the town is coping after a water-related illness outbreak, according to SAnews.

About 408 cases of stomach and bowel illness have been recorded in the area. They followed residents drinking water that is suspected of being contaminated, and the problem has been linked to the Bronkhorstspruit Water Treatment Works.

What the Deputy President will do

Mashatile will tour the treatment works to look at the situation there and get an update on the state of its infrastructure. He will also meet the authorities involved to hear what is being done to make the town’s water safe and dependable again.

He will visit patients who are in hospital as well, and receive an update on the condition of those affected and on the response from health services, the Presidency said.

The trip falls under the Inter-Ministerial Committee on Water and Sanitation, which he chairs. According to the report, the committee brings together government efforts on water and sanitation problems, aims to tighten accountability and seeks faster action on service delivery complaints from communities.

Who is involved

The City of Tshwane has led the response so far. The Presidency said this has included checking the affected infrastructure, steps to protect public health and efforts to get safe water flowing again to residents.

During the visit, Mashatile will gauge progress with the City and the national and provincial departments concerned. He will stress the need for coordinated action, proper oversight and accountability so that people have access to safe, reliable water.

He will be joined by:

• Water and Sanitation Minister Pemmy Majodina
• Deputy Minister of Water and Sanitation David Mahlobo
• Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi
• Gauteng Roads and Transport MEC Jacob Mamabolo
• Tshwane Executive Mayor Dr Nasiphi Moya

Other government officials will also be part of the delegation.

What this means for residents

The report does not say when normal, safe supply will be restored, and it does not describe the specific repairs under way. Those details may emerge after the visit. Residents of Bronkhorstspruit should keep an eye on official notices from the City of Tshwane for guidance on water use. Anyone with symptoms of stomach illness should seek medical help.

This story is based on reporting by SAnews.