Public Protector launches probe into Bronkhorstspruit water crisis

The Public Protector has initiated an inquiry into allegations of maladministration and improper conduct by the City of Tshwane in response to a water crisis in Bronkhorstspruit, located east of Pretoria. Health authorities have associated more than 400 instances of gastrointestinal illness in the area to water contaminated with the Bronkhorstspruit Water Treatment Plant.

Oupa Segalwe, a spokesperson for the Public Protector's office, stated that they will seek a formal response from the Tshwane City Manager regarding these allegations. Following the receipt of complaints, an investigation team from the Public Protector visited the Bronkhorstspruit Water Treatment Plant to verify the claims and determine what interim measures had been implemented to safeguard residents from unsafe water.

The team was informed that the plant had been decommissioned as a temporary measure to enable the cleaning and disinfection of the entire water system. They were also told that water tankers would be utilized to supply water to the affected community.