First phase new Klipdrift water treatment plant launches in Hammanskraal
Residents have long complained about the quality of their water, an issue that worsened after a deadly cholera outbreak in 2023, which claimed dozens of lives in the township, north of Tshwane.
A dry tap at a residence home in Seshego, Polokwane, Limpopo, 10 February 2024. Picture: Jacques Nelles/Eyewitness News
TSHWANE - After years of limited access to clean drinking water, the first phase of the new Klipdrift water treatment plant has been launched in Hammanskraal.
Residents have long complained about the quality of their water, an issue that worsened after a deadly cholera outbreak in 2023, which claimed dozens of lives in the township, north of Tshwane.
While the plant has been commissioned, officials said clean water will only reach some residents in about two weeks.
The city has attributed the delay to contaminated pipelines, caused by illegal connections and backwash from the Temba water treatment plant.
Acting Executive Mayor Eugene Modise said the project is a crucial step towards restoring reliable access to potable water in the area.
“They have given us the first module, first phase, which is fully functional and producing quality water which is tested and ready for consumption by our residents. However, it’s going to take almost two weeks; by then our people will be able to get clean running water. This is a wonderful Christmas present for our residents in Tshwane, particularly Hammanskraal.”