The Mayor of Merafong Local Municipality (Carletonville, Fochville, Wedela), Ms Nozuko Best, has undertaken to restore electricity supply to Welverdiend by Sunday (3 August). Residents have not had power for 33 days.
This undertaking was made during a heated council meeting where the Freedom Front Plus (VF Plus) put significant pressure on her to remedy the situation.
The Mayor stated that Merafong will install three transformers (one 10 MVA and two 5 MVA) at the Frikkie van der Merwe substation.
Welverdiend residents, who have endured 33 days without electricity, were also without water for four days after Rand Water drastically reduced the water supply to Merafong. The reservoirs ran dry, leaving Welverdiend without water.
The Municipality, which owes Rand Water R1,4 billion, has since paid R50 million, consequently, the bulk supplier increased the water supply to 80%.
The party commends Welverdiend residents who attended the council meeting in large numbers to increase the pressure on the Mayor. The voices of Welverdiend’s residents must be heard.
The Freedom Front Plus will closely monitor the situation and take further steps if the Mayor fails to honour her commitment.
Welverdiend residents are at the mercy of a Municipality unable to ensure basic service delivery.
The Municipality made no effort to implement interim measures to supply power to Welverdiend. Such inaction should not be tolerated.
Welverdiend deserves better.
