1. No, my department is not aware of any complaints pertaining to dangerous mining chemicals polluting a water stream and the environment in the Wonderfontein Catchment Area. However, there are various platforms available to report such incidents through the DWS Hotline 0800 200 200 or via email: customercare@dws.gov.za or directly to officials (whose contact details are also on the internet webpage under customer care www.dws.gov.za responsible for the catchment area). Specific details pertaining to this question will be appreciated and investigated once received.
2. No, my department is not aware of any allegations that some government officials and politicians are colluding with mining bosses to pollute waterways. However, should there be such allegations, they must be reported to enable the department to investigate.
3. No, there is currently no official of my departmental being investigated regarding allegations of collusion with mining bosses.
4. Current routine monitoring results do not indicate any pollution incidents in this area. Anomalies detected in water quality would normally also be relayed to the local municipality so that the information is publicised through local radio stations and newspapers if necessary.
The JB Marks Local Municipality (under which the towns of Potchefstroom and Ventersdorp falls) implements a Water Safety Plan, which is aimed at identification and prioritisation of risks associated with water supply. In line with this plan, the municipality identifies risks associated and encountered at the catchment, treatment and distribution network and employ mitigation measures to ensure water supplied is safe for human consumption. The municipality has reported that it has not detected any irregularities in the catchment.
Areas under the jurisdiction of JB Marks Local Municipality receive treated water with a microbiological compliance for the year to date at 94.5% (when measured against SANS241 limits).
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