SA Human Rights Commission calls water crisis to be declared a national disaster

The South African Human Rights Commission (SAHRC) said it will send a letter to the National Disaster Management Centre to recommend declaring the country’s water crisis a national disaster.

This comes hot on the heels of pressure mounting in Gauteng for urgent intervention, as communities continue to grapple with water supply disruptions.

Some residents in areas including Midrand, Melville and the south of Joburg have resorted to protest action, calling for water in their taps.

The latest protests were in the Joburg south, with the elderly and people with disabilities saying they are the hardest hit.

The SAHRC said that schools and hospitals are also suffering.

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Moreover, the commission said, the government should be reminded that water is a constitutional right essential for health, education and dignity.

SAHRC spokesperson Wisani Baloyi said it is their responsibility to ensure that right is protected.

“The classification and declaration of the water crisis in the country as a national disaster constitutes a reasonable measure in the circumstances.

“Properly and effectively implemented, the national state of disaster will ensure that emergency funds are mobilised and government collaboration is better coordinated, and intervention of this magnitude is essential amid the ongoing water crisis in the country.”

He added that these funds should not be misused.