The water crisis in Ladysmith has entered its third week, with residents in areas including Steadville and Acaciaville still without a reliable water supply.
The crisis began on 7 August, and the ongoing lack of water is now affecting schools, with Ladysmith Secondary School forced to close amid unhygienic conditions.
In a letter to parents dated 20 August, the school confirmed that it had become non-operational after the Department of Labour closed the school. Grade 12 pupils are being allowed to attend limited classes, while the remainder of the school stays closed.
DA uThukela Chairperson Cllr Thys Janse van Rensburg said the situation had gone beyond a water shortage and was now affecting the education, health and wellbeing of children.
“This is no longer simply a water interruption. It is a crisis that is directly affecting our children’s education and the health and dignity of our communities,” said Janse van Rensburg.
Janse van Rensburg blamed what he described as years of poor management under the IFP-led administration, saying the municipality continues to face serious challenges relating to water losses and financial management.
“The municipality cannot continue blaming circumstances while the same problems repeat themselves year after year. Water infrastructure must be repaired and properly maintained,” he said.
He said the DA had taken the matter to court, with its High Court application set down for 19 October at the Pietermaritzburg High Court.
The DA is asking the court to compel the municipality to restore water services and provide greater oversight of the municipality.
Janse van Rensburg said residents should not have to fight for access to basic services.
“Residents deserve clean, reliable water, and children deserve to attend school in safe and hygienic conditions. We will continue fighting for the people of uThukela,” he said.
He also pointed to the upcoming local government elections on 4 November, saying residents would have an opportunity to demand change.
“The people of uThukela deserve water and dignity. They deserve a municipality that puts service delivery first,” said Janse van Rensburg.
