A worsening water crisis in KwaZulu-Natal’s Midlands has left several communities without reliable supply, with authorities warning the situation is rapidly escalating.
Widespread shortages have been reported across areas under the uMngeni Local Municipality, where infrastructure damage caused by a recent storm has disrupted water distribution.
According to uMngeni-uThukela Water, two motors at a key water treatment plant were damaged, severely affecting supply to parts of the municipality. The utility confirmed that the motors have been removed for repairs.
Communities in Howick, Mpophomeni, Hilton, Merrivale and surrounding Midlands areas are among those impacted.
uMngeni Mayor Chris Pappas has written to the uMgungundlovu District Municipality, calling for urgent intervention as the crisis intensifies.
In his correspondence, Pappas warned that reservoir levels have dropped significantly, leaving many residents without access to water and placing strain on businesses and schools. He described the situation as rapidly evolving into a humanitarian concern requiring immediate and coordinated action.
The municipality has requested emergency relief measures, including the deployment of water tankers, to maintain access to basic services.
Meanwhile, uMngeni-uThukela Water spokesperson Siyabonga Maphumulo said one of the damaged motors is expected to be reinstalled on Tuesday morning as repair efforts continue.