Municipalities need to step up their game

IT IS no secret that many municipalities struggle with the provision of water and sanitation services to the communities they serve.

Daily news articles paint a bleak picture of water cuts, irregular water supply and many residences in impoverished, underprivileged communities not having this human right.

Many municipalities fail to pay their water bill to water boards. Gone are the days of tackling issues with kid gloves. South Africans are yearning for progress and services to be delivered.

Municipalities need to come up with clear strategies for collection of debt. Businesses and residents need to pay for their services and municipalities must be brazen in collecting it.

Non-payers have to be cut off, loyal customers cannot suffer because of the few lawbreakers. It is imperative that pipe leaks and bursts be reported and fixed with haste. Almost 50% of potable water is lost due to the unattended leaks and pipe bursts.

We have reached a tipping point as a society and the stayaway staged in the last election was a clarion call for those chosen to lead to steer the ship in the right direction.

Security needs to be provided at water and waste water treatment plants to curb theft and vandalism.

Communities are angry and this can be attested to through the endless protests and strikes that do more damage than good. Time for improved provision of service is now.

LARRY CRISP | Communications Manager Department of Water and Sanitation