The City of Tshwane has cautioned Hammanskraal residents not to buy or drink water from water tankers moving around in the area, saying the water has not been tested.
This after the city received disturbing news from community members alleging that there are roaming water tankers selling water to residents.
“The city provides drinkable water to its communities in formal and informal areas in Hammanskraal free of charge,” said the city in a statement.
“The water provided by the city’s authorised tankers has been declared safe for drinking after a series of tests conducted confirmed that it does not contain cholera.”
Officials from the Tshwane Metro Police Department (TMPD) have been activated and will conduct stop-and-search operations on any trucks transporting water without a valid permit.
The city also urged residents to write down the registration numbers of the tankers selling water and to report these to the TMPD on 012 358 7095/7096, adding that it provides potable water to communities through contracted service providers who carry a letter or permit authorising them to dispense water.
“Anyone caught selling untested water without a permit will be arrested and prosecuted,” said the city.
“Communities are urged to be circumspect of unscrupulous people allegedly taking advantage of the water situation in Hammanskraal by exploiting the vulnerability of people desperate for drinking water.”
The city has sampled water for testing from various water distribution points, including hydrants and reservoirs, and the results have not shown any trace of cholera.
“Confirmatory test results from the National Institute for Communicable Diseases that will pinpoint the actual source of contamination are still outstanding.”
At least 23 people have died as a result of cholera in Hammanskraal over the past week.
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