Okahandja residents fed up with ‘persistent’ water crisis
Okahandja residents have voiced frustrations regarding frequent water interruptions they say have ‘devastated’ the community.
The inconsistency of water supply has left many households struggling, they said, while announcements of water cuts are often made late - if at all - causing even more distress.
A resident from Veddersdal, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said the situation is worse than it has ever been. “When I return from work, my house looks like a pigsty because the washing cannot be done,” she fumed. “On weekends, you used to be able to sleep a little late, but now I have to wake up early to ensure I finish my chores because you never know when the water will be cut.”
The ongoing water crisis has not only affected household routines, but has also disrupted education in the area. Just last week, learners were sent home from schools due to the lack of water. Parents said they are worried these interruptions are negatively impacting their children.
‘Temporary inconveniences’
When approached for comment, Okahandja CEO Alphons Tjitombo explained that the disruptions are due to a valve that was recently installed by NamWater. “The water build-up is very slow, caused by the valve as well, which is why Veddersdal always gets water last,” he said.
NamWater provided further insight into the matter. According to spokesperson Lot Ndamanomhata, the primary cause of the disruptions is the refurbishment of a ground reservoir which has been out of operation since April.
“These refurbishment works are necessary to ensure the long-term reliability of the water supply system. While they have resulted in temporary inconveniences, they are crucial for the sustainability of the water supply infrastructure,” he explained.
“Recent water supply interruptions have been worsened by pipe breaks within the town’s own reticulation system, which is separate from NamWater’s infrastructure,” he said.
According to him, NamWater is working closely with the municipality to resolve the issue.
“We are working on putting up a booster pump to improve the water supply. The process has started, with bidding open for consultations, after which a contractor will be appointed,” Tjitombo added.
The inconsistency of water supply has left many households struggling, they said, while announcements of water cuts are often made late - if at all - causing even more distress.
A resident from Veddersdal, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said the situation is worse than it has ever been. “When I return from work, my house looks like a pigsty because the washing cannot be done,” she fumed. “On weekends, you used to be able to sleep a little late, but now I have to wake up early to ensure I finish my chores because you never know when the water will be cut.”
The ongoing water crisis has not only affected household routines, but has also disrupted education in the area. Just last week, learners were sent home from schools due to the lack of water. Parents said they are worried these interruptions are negatively impacting their children.
‘Temporary inconveniences’
When approached for comment, Okahandja CEO Alphons Tjitombo explained that the disruptions are due to a valve that was recently installed by NamWater. “The water build-up is very slow, caused by the valve as well, which is why Veddersdal always gets water last,” he said.
NamWater provided further insight into the matter. According to spokesperson Lot Ndamanomhata, the primary cause of the disruptions is the refurbishment of a ground reservoir which has been out of operation since April.
“These refurbishment works are necessary to ensure the long-term reliability of the water supply system. While they have resulted in temporary inconveniences, they are crucial for the sustainability of the water supply infrastructure,” he explained.
“Recent water supply interruptions have been worsened by pipe breaks within the town’s own reticulation system, which is separate from NamWater’s infrastructure,” he said.
According to him, NamWater is working closely with the municipality to resolve the issue.
“We are working on putting up a booster pump to improve the water supply. The process has started, with bidding open for consultations, after which a contractor will be appointed,” Tjitombo added.
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