Vaal Central Water distances itself from sandy drinking water in FS

The Vaal Central Water has set the record straight regarding the uproar over sand-contaminated drinking water in the Free State.

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VAAL CENTRAL WATER ACKNOWLEDGES COMPLAINT

In a statement, Vaal Central Water said it has noted the concerns raised on social media regarding water equality.

“The Entity as the water providers (WSP) to Water Authorities Services (WSA) or municipalities, has the duty to inform the public of any issues related to water quality or compliance. This service spans the Central, Northern, South-Eastern Free State and the Northern Cape.

“In light of the specific complaints from Central Free State, notably the sand in taps and geysers, it is important to clarify that Vaal Central Water supplies bulk water to Mangaung Metropolitan Municipality, with the exception of the Northern Suburbs. These suburbs are served directly by the Municipality’s Maselspoort Treatment Works,” the bulk supplier explained in its case.

“Foreign particles in water often indicate distribution system issues.”Vaal Central Water

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WHAT HAPPENS IF FOREIGN OBJECTS ARE FOUND IN DRINKING WATER?

If any foreign particles are detected, Vaal Central Water said it collaborates with municipalities to diagnose and resolve any disruptions within the supply chain.

The bulk supplier added that compliance with the South African National Standard (SANS) 241:2015 for Drinking Water Equality is ensured by them. This includes meeting standards across health, operational, aesthetic, chemical, and microbiological requirements to safeguard against waterborne diseases such as cholera, dysentery, and diarrhoea.

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THE STRINGENT TESTING PROTOCOL

“Operational monitoring is stringent, entailing two hourly testing of physical parameters including water colour, clarity and chlorine levels at all water treatment works. In addition to the above measures, the Entity utilises the University of the Free State’s Institute Groundwater to conduct independent testing of water.

“In the event of challenges with water quality or quantity, the affected Municipality is immediately informed by them, along with a mitigation plan. The protocol ensures that the Municipality can notify its consumers as mandated by law,” Vaal Central Water further clarified.

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Furthermore, the bulk supplier encouraged the public to report any water quality issues to the respective municipalities as soon as possible, and to the newly launched Department of Water and Sanitation Call Centre on this toll-free number: 0800 200 200.