Phumla Mqashi’s water struggle continues

Today, the streets of Phumla Mqashi were filled with residents braving the 29-degree heat, buckets in hand, as they rushed towards a water truck provided by Joburg Water.

The truck had made its fourth stop of the day, only able to stay for a few precious minutes, but for those waiting, it was the lifeline they desperately needed. The scene was heartbreaking-mothers, fathers, children, all fighting to secure enough water to last them until the next truck would arrive.

One resident explained: “It’s frustrating. We shouldn’t have to be running like this. We need water, we need taps.”

The water we receive from these trucks is not enough. We don’t know when the next delivery will come and we shouldn’t have to live like this,” one resident added, voice tinged with frustration.

Despite their hardships, the community’s spirit remains resilient, even as they feel abandoned by those meant to serve them. “We are human beings and water is a basic need. We shouldn’t be treated like this,” a resident said.

Joburg Water spokesperson, Nombuso Tshabalala, told Globe Post: “15 stationary water tanks have been placed at Phumla Mqashi and an additional 4 roaming water trucks are servicing the area. We are expecting delivery of 30 more tanks by Friday, 22 November. Meetings were held with the ward councillor and the community last week and we have addressed some of their concerns. As a result, we are ensuring that water supply is maintained through both stationary and roaming water trucks.”

Though the efforts of Joburg Water have been acknowledged, the community’s deep concern over their ongoing struggles highlights the urgency of finding a permanent solution to this water crisis.