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The South African Department of Water and Sanitation is taking proactive measures to combat the rise of unscrupulous "water tanker mafias" that emerge during water crises. This alert corresponds with the current maintenance of the critical Lesotho Highlands Water Project (LHWP) and emphasizes the importance of integrity and community protection throughout this period.
Water and Sanitation Deputy Minister Sello Seitlholo, alongside Deputy Minister David Mahlobo, recently inspected operations in Clarens, Free State, where they offered critical advice to local authorities. Seitlholo underscored the danger of opportunists capitalizing on the situation and called for municipalities to exercise caution. He expressed concern over these mafias taking advantage of the maintenance downtime to bolster their illicit business by potentially sabotaging water systems.
The LHWP, a pivotal transboundary water conveyance project between South Africa and Lesotho, began its tunnel system maintenance on October 1, 2024, causing a temporary water supply alteration. The Trans Caledon Tunnel Authority (TCTA) is handling the Delivery Tunnel North's revamping within South Africa, while the Lesotho Highlands Development Agency (LHDA) focuses on the transfer tunnels at Lesotho's Muela hydro power station.
In this challenging time, Deputy Minister Seitlholo advocated for the continuous communication with communities, particularly through social media, to raise awareness about water consumption and maintenance activities. Transparency and information dissemination are viewed as effective tools to counter misinformation and exploitation.
Deputy Minister Mahlobo echoed these sentiments and urged water suppliers, particularly those operating water tankers, to act responsibly and not to exploit the citizens during this interim phase. He sternly reminded suppliers that if they engage in illegal activities like vandalizing municipal systems, they would face the full force of the law.
Acknowledgments came from Acting Free State Premier, Jabu Mbalula, who expressed satisfaction with the progress of the LHWP maintenance. Mbalula reassured the public that both provincial and national governments are addressing the water challenges and emphasized the critical issue of water leaks in the province. The collaborative effort and shared commitment to overcoming the water crisis were apparent during these updates.
In conclusion, the government officials look forward to the project's positive impact on water security and management while maintaining a vigilant stance against any entities attempting to disrupt services for personal gain.