By Karabo Marifi
In response to severe water shortages impacting Polokwane and surrounding areas, the University of Limpopo has postponed its end-of-year exams. The city, reliant on water supplied by the Polokwane Municipality and Lepelle Northern Water, has faced ongoing disruptions due to damaged infrastructure, electricity outages affecting water treatment plants, and maintenance delays, leaving residents without consistent access to water for weeks.
At a press briefing, Polokwane Mayor John Mpe expressed disappointment that the university made this decision without first consulting the municipality. The university’s spokesperson, Victor Kgomoeswana, defended the move, citing the challenging conditions on campus: nearly 7,000 students in residence were facing unsanitary conditions, such as non-flushing toilets and limited access to bathing facilities. To mitigate the situation, the university arranged for portable toilets and water deliveries, while local authorities began distributing water tanks across affected areas. According to municipal sources, the Olifantspoort and Ebenezer water lines, which supply much of Polokwane, have experienced multiple service disruptions due to maintenance challenges and power cuts impacting operations at key water plants.
In solidarity with affected students, the EFF Student Command (EFFSC) led a demonstration at the municipal offices, criticising what they described as poor planning and lack of urgency in addressing the water crisis. They argued that water scarcity is a basic human rights issue and demanded immediate action to ensure sustainable water access for the community and students alike.
The water crisis in Polokwane has intensified community frustration, leading to protests and petitions urging municipal accountability. In response, the municipality has promised to accelerate infrastructure repairs and address persistent service interruptions to restore water access to all affected areas.
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