The parties said they have agreed that the immediate priority is to safeguard water services while implementing a practical financial recovery plan to deal with the municipality’s historical debt and improve its long-term financial sustainability.
This follows deadly protests over water last week, which claimed the lives of two residents during clashes between disgruntled community members and police.
The Gauteng government said as part of the agreement, Rand Water’s previously implemented 20% reduction in water supply will remain suspended while the recovery process gets underway.
A multi-disciplinary technical team has been given seven days to produce a comprehensive financial and operational recovery plan.
The report will assess the municipality’s financial position, revenue collection systems, water losses, infrastructure, metering and sustainable options to repay historical debt while maintaining reliable water services.
During the meeting, the Lesedi Municipality attributed its financial difficulties to declining revenue following reduced industrial activity, poor revenue collection, rising numbers of indigent households and increasing operational costs.
Stakeholders also condemned recent violence and damage to property linked to the water disruptions, urging residents to raise their concerns peacefully while the government works towards a lasting solution.
Dimakatso Leshoro
www.ewn.co.za
