The Mangaung Metro Municipality in the Free State has recently been hit with constant water problems, leaving residents angry and frustrated. In the month of October alone, the metro has already experienced water interruptions three times following varying incidents. 

Earlier this month a pipe burst on the Bloem Water mainline between the De Hoek and Uitkyk reservoir.

A few weeks later residents were hit with another water supply interruption after the power utility Eskom's poles got damaged during a veld fire and water could not be pumped.

On Friday (20/10) residents were again warned of a water supply challenge affecting Dewetsdorp, Wepener and some parts of Bloemfontein due to debris and high turbidity at the Caledon River.

Mangaung Metro Municipal spokesperson, Qondile Khedama said the Vaal Central Water (formerly known as Bloem Water) has informed the metro that this has affected and blocked Welbedacht water resources, as high turbidities affect the balancing dams that sustain the main bulk water supply.

Eskom's poles got damaged during a veld fire and water could not be pumped. Photo supplied

"Longridge reservoir’s capacity is increasing and gradually supplying to affected areas. High-lying areas such as Phelindaba, Rocklands, Caleb Motshabi and adjacent areas will get water gradually as turbidities subside at the water resources," Khedama said.

He reminded residents that due to favourable topography, low-lying areas will receive water first whilst it may take longer in higher-lying areas.

"Vaal Central Water will provide water tankers to the affected areas until water is restored in all affected areas. Mangaung Metro apologises for the inconvenience this has caused," Khedama said.

OFM News/Lucky Nkuyane