Acts of alleged vandalism, theft and illegal connections continue to negatively impact Lepelle Northern Water operations.

Two separate incidents reported by the Ebenezer plant yesterday seemingly occurred in the Ga-Mothiba area along the main pipeline to Polokwane. It follows the discovery of manholes appearing to have been covered with cement to prevent easy access to repair what are perceived as illegal water connections.

It was learnt that such incidents are a regular occurrence in the area and that the respective reported offences are the third and fourth to be detected within the quarter. Meanwhile incidents of alleged illegal connections to gain access to water for livestock in the vicinity of Olifantspoort plant elsewhere in the Capricorn Region contribute to concerns about such offences impacting negatively on operations.

In response to alleged illegal connections an estimated two hours are generally added on to reaction time when having to restore water supply.

LNW’s team responsible for operations in the region simultaneously pointed out that employees’ lives got threatened in the process of attempting to gain access to trouble spots and that the assistance of the Police is usually required when responding to incidents.