More than 500 water tanks to be distributed to Western Cape informal settlements

In the coming days approximately 500 water tanks will be distributed to various informal settlements across the Western Cape. Residents in these communities should be aware that their safety, health and basic rights are our top priority during this National crisis.

Based on the input provided by Municipalities, it was determined that 293 water tanks will be distributed to non-Metro districts, while the Metro will receive 244 of these tanks.

The non-Metro breakdown will see the Cape Winelands District receiving 75, the Garden Route District 78, Central Karoo District 50, Overberg District45 and the West Coast District 42.

It is pleasing to note that Beaufort West has already received 20 tanks, with standpipes are due to arrive today. Prins Albert received 14 tanks, while Laingsburg received 6. The Drakenstein received 15 tanks. Overall delivery of all water tanks is expected to conclude by Thursday, 9 April.

The National Department of Water and Sanitation appointed Overberg Water, who will work hand-in-hand with the Western Cape Department of Human Settlements and local Municipalities, as its Implementing Agent to distribute and install water tanks across the non-metro areas.

It is critical that good and effective hygiene, along with social distancing is practiced in order to prevent the further spread of COVID-19. The provision of these water tanks will undoubtedly assist in this regard, particularly since access to water is one of the challenges that’s faced by informal settlements across the country.

We will be monitoring the distribution of these water tanks closely, to ensure that they do arrive at the identified area and that it is benefitting the community. I call on community members to ensure that this infrastructure is protected and utilised to strengthen, improved hygiene.

In these difficult times which we are experiencing as a country, I am making a further call on the private sector, as part of active citizenry and who might be in a position to also assist with the provision of water tanks to play a role in this regard, as it will help us in the fight against COVID-19.

We have to #StopTheSpread