Residents of Secunda have faced ongoing water outages and communication challenges regarding the Extension 22 reservoirs, which play a crucial role in our community’s water supply stability. As noted by DA Councillor Fiona Pelman, “This situation did not begin today. It began shortly after the significant Rand Water maintenance shutdown in 2024.” The community suffered through lengthy water shortages, with residents often left without access for up to 16 days at a time.

The condition of the Extension 22 reservoirs deteriorated significantly, prompting the Democratic Alliance to advocate for funding to refurbish the infrastructure. After persistent efforts, R3 million was allocated for restoration and rehabilitation. However, the project has been riddled with issues, including vandalism, poor workmanship, contractor incompetence, and significant delays. Councillor Pelman remarked on her frustrations: “Instead of clarity and accountability, we received silence or uncertainty — despite the ongoing impact on residents and the seriousness of the infrastructure involved.”

Despite escalations to national representatives, including Parliamentarian Stephen Moore, and the confirmation from the Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (CoGTA) that repairs were 95% complete and expected to be finalised by 30 October 2025, there remains uncertainty. “Today — 11 December 2025 — as Secunda again faces another Rand Water maintenance outage, we still do not have the remaining 5% completed,” Councillor Pelman stated. “There is no official communication explaining the outstanding work, the delays, or the obstacles preventing full completion.”

The matter has escalated to the Human Rights Commission due to the violation of basic human rights caused by prolonged water outages. Councillor Pelman emphasised the need for answers and transparency: “Residents deserve functioning, reliable water infrastructure — not repeated empty promises, moving deadlines, and chronic operational failures.”

In her correspondence with the Govan Mbeki Municipality (GMM), Councillor Pelman formally requested comprehensive updates on the refurbishment status. Her inquiries included essential details about the current completion percentage, progress on necessary installations, potential defects, budget expenditure, contractor performance, and community notifications. She stressed that timely information is crucial for public communication and oversight.

In an official response from GMM Executive Mayor Cllr NG Zuma, several questions regarding the refurbishment were addressed. While some aspects, such as electrical maintenance, were reported to be complete, challenges persist due to a malfunctioning control valve affecting the reservoir’s functionality. The municipality is making efforts to appoint contractors for necessary installations, yet the timeline for full operational status remains unclear.

Councillor Pelman sums up the disappointment felt by the community: “We have come full circle — from 2024’s outages to a R3 million refurbishment, to Parliament, to CoGTA, to the HRC — and yet we still do not have a functioning reservoir system or accountability for the delays.” The residents of Secunda demand transparency, accountability, and above all, a reliable water supply — vital for every household and essential for the well-being of the community.

As Secunda continues to grapple with these pressing infrastructure issues, it is vital for the municipality to communicate effectively and restore trust among its residents. They deserve a resolution to this crisis, along with transparent updates on the future of the water supply in their town.