Bronkhorstspruit water remains unsafe to drink despite rehabilitation progress
Moya says water from the Bronkhorstspruit Water Treatment Works remains unsafe to drink, even if it 'looks okay'.
Tshwane Mayor Nasiphi Moya has reported that the water from Bronkhorstspruit Water Treatment Works remains unsafe for drinking despite ongoing rehabilitation efforts. Moya explained that the city, in collaboration with Rand Water, is making progress, but acknowledges the challenges posed by a plant that is over 60 years old and underfunded.
The contamination issue began a decade ago and has only recently been addressed within a three-week timeframe. Rand Water's assessment revealed excessive sludge accumulation, dissolved flotation units deficiencies, and problems with pumping and filtration equipment. Cleaning and repairs have been ongoing, including removing accumulated sludge, repairing critical equipment, and restoring filtration and chlorination processes.
Despite these efforts, Moya warned residents not to consume the water, even though it may appear clean. The city has been conducting water quality tests, identifying low levels of E. coli in the discharged water during cleaning. Once the remaining commissioning and disinfection processes are completed and laboratory tests confirm compliance with drinking water standards, water supply will gradually resume.
The city's broader plan includes improvements to pumping equipment, treatment infrastructure, chemical management, preventative maintenance, and water quality monitoring. Ultimately, Rand Water's role is to help restore and stabilize the treatment works, with the city assuming full responsibility for the long-term maintenance and rehabilitation of the facilities.
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