Old and disabled left without water as Lenasia taps cut

Residents of Phum’lamqashi informal settlement near Lenasia, in Johannesburg, say they are facing a devastating and unlivable water crisis.

This comes after Joburg Water cut off illegal connections in the area on Monday, leaving them without running water for five days now.

Aggrieved residents took to the streets in violent protest, demanding that their water supply be restored.

By today, scores of residents began queuing since the early hours of the morning, waiting to fill their buckets with water from nearby businesses.

The residents had been forced to turn to the generosity of local store owners, who’ve opened their taps to them.

However, residents say the temporary solution isn’t sustainable and are demanding that the government find a humane solution to their crisis.

Spaza shop owner, Alinah Baloyi, emphasised that officials should have negotiated with residents before cutting the water supply.

“These businesses are better than the government we voted for. At least they must come and negotiate with us, and tell us what to do,” she told YNews.

Meanwhile, elderly residents have opened up about the impact of the water cuts on their health.

Nobanthu Coka described having to skip her chronic medication due to the lack of water.

In an emotional state, she shared about feeling abandoned by government officials who only use her during the election period.

The 85-year-old, like many other residents, is dissatisfied with the temporary water tanks in the area, which she fears could be contaminated.

She’s called for the government’s urgent intervention to address the escalating water crisis.

Another resident, who asked to remain anonymous, said the lack of water is difficult because she has a disabled child.

“While my disabled daughter requires nappies, the lack of water means I cannot wash them.”

Community leader, Thabo Mabukenyane, says water tankers are the current solution to residents’ frustrations.

“The long-term plan is for our councillor to meet with the Department of Human Settlements and start the process of formalising our water supply,” he added.