Vicious acts of sabotage on the main water lines in Meloding have resulted in residents being without water for up to two weeks at a time.
Tshediso Tlale, spokesperson for the municipality, says that on 4 March a burst pipe was reported.
“This prompted the municipality to dispatch a team to do repairs. However, immediately after the repair, the same pipe was destroyed by unknown culprits. These continuous acts of barbarism have resulted in the non-availability of water to Meloding residents for weeks,” says Tlali.
On Sunday, 17 March, another act of vandalism to a water pipe was reported.
For the second time in two weeks the railway bridge leading into Meloding was flooded by water, obstructing access for vehicles.
“This reprehensible act of vandalism has severe implications for the entire community of Meloding, Virginia, emphasising the urgent need for collective action to prevent such incidents in the future,” he says.
“The destruction of municipal infrastructure not only poses significant safety risks, but also has far-reaching consequences for the well-being and livelihoods of residents.”
Tlali says that the impact of vandalism extends beyond the immediate disruption of water supply.
“Schools in the area have been adversely affected, with learners and teachers facing difficulties in accessing clean water for drinking, sanitation, and hygiene purposes, jeopardising the health and safety of our children and undermining the quality of education.”
The unavailability of water has placed additional strain on healthcare facilities, hindering their ability to provide essential services to patients. The lack of adequate water supply compromises hygiene standards and sanitation practices, increasing the risk of waterborne diseases and other health issues.
The inability to access reliable water supply hampers economic activities and undermines the socio-economic development of the community.
