For over ten years, residents of Parys in the Ngwathe Local Municipality have struggled with severe water shortages, frequent pipe bursts, and poor water quality, leaving communities reliant on communal taps and Jojo tanks for their daily needs.
Frustrated locals report waking as early as 2:00 a.m. to queue for water, with many relying on a single Jojo tank stationed at a nearby school. Those without storage tanks face dire challenges, often collecting discolored water they claim is unsafe for consumption. Despite repeated protests and appeals to authorities, no lasting solutions have been implemented.
A Decade of Neglect
Residents allege that the municipality has failed to address the crisis, with incomplete infrastructure projects and alleged mismanagement exacerbating the problem. In 2023, the Provincial Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (COGTA) MEC criticized local authorities for inaction, but two years later, the situation remains unchanged.
One resident expressed exhaustion: “We report the issues every week, but nothing happens. The water is dirty, and we have no choice but to use it.”
Broader Systemic Failures
The South African Human Rights Commission (SAHRC) has previously highlighted Free State municipalities for failing to meet constitutional obligations, with Ngwathe among those under scrutiny. Parys is not alone—multiple townships in the area face similar shortages, relying on sporadic water deliveries and communal sources.
Municipal Response Awaited
Authorities have yet to provide an updated response on the delays in resolving the crisis. Journalists are seeking comment from local officials to clarify why a decade-long issue persists despite repeated complaints.
For now, Parys residents continue their daily struggle for a basic necessity, with little hope for immediate relief.