Bronkhorstspruit:Deputy President Paul Mashatile will visit Bronkhorstspruit in the City of Tshwane Metropolitan Municipality, Gauteng, on Monday to assess the water conditions following reports of gastrointestinal illness linked to contaminated water in the area.

According to South African Government News Agency, this visit is part of the efforts by the Inter-Ministerial Committee (IMC) on Water and Sanitation, chaired by Deputy President Mashatile. The committee is tasked with coordinating government interventions to address water and sanitation challenges, enhance accountability, and expedite responses to service delivery concerns impacting communities.

During his visit, Deputy President Mashatile will evaluate the Bronkhorstspruit Water Treatment Works (BWTW) to understand the situation better, receive updates on the water treatment infrastructure, and discuss with relevant authorities the measures being implemented to restore the safety and reliability of the water supply. He will also visit hospitalized patients affected by gastrointestinal illness due to the consumption of contaminated water.

Approximately 408 cases of gastrointestinal illness have been reported in the Bronkhorstspruit area after residents consumed water suspected of being contaminated and linked to the Bronkhorstspruit Water Treatment Works. This incident has raised significant concerns about the water supply's safety and the potential health risks to the community. The engagement will serve as an opportunity to receive updates on the condition of affected residents and the healthcare response.

The City of Tshwane Metropolitan Municipality has been at the forefront of the response, including measures to address water quality concerns, assess affected infrastructure, and implement steps to safeguard public health and restore the supply of safe water to residents. During the visit, the Deputy President will assess the progress in addressing the crisis and engage with the City of Tshwane and relevant government departments to reinforce the importance of coordinated action, effective oversight, and accountability in ensuring access to safe and reliable water.

Accompanying Deputy President Mashatile on this visit will be the Minister of Water and Sanitation, Pemmy Majodina; Deputy Minister of Water and Sanitation, David Mahlobo; Gauteng Premier, Panyaza Lesufi; Gauteng MEC for Roads and Transport, Jacob Mamabolo; and Executive Mayor of the City of Tshwane Metropolitan Municipality, Dr. Nasiphi Moya, along with other relevant government officials.