adminMarvelous Moyo Gwanda Correspondent
THE Gwanda Residents Association (GRA) is seeking an explanation from government concerning delays in the handover of a water treatment plant to the municipality.
The treatment plant is being administered by the Zimbabwe National Water Authority (Zinwa) while the municipality is responsible for the distribution of water to the residents.
It is supposed to reduce tariffs as it can purify water at a lower cost.
In an e-mail to the Environment, Water and Climate Minister Saviour Kasukuwere, GRA spokesperson Bekezela Maduma Fuzwayo said residents needed to know why the issue of handing over the treatment plant to the local authority was taking long while residents continued to pay high water charges compared to other towns.
“The handover of the plant is a guarantee to affordable water for the residents. In recent closed door and public meetings between council and residents, we’ve been made to believe that the process of handing over the water treatment plant to council and subsequent solution to our water woes is being delayed or lies somewhere in your office.
“As residents we will highly appreciate your kind consideration of our plea and your speedy intervention on the matter.
“Our problem, with due respect, Honourable Minister, is that we’re suffering as a citizenry of the town while we’re told that the matter bound to solve our suffering is being held up in your office,” said Fuzwayo.
The association said the delays in the process would see the residents continue to face water problems due to water supply disconnections or restricted supplies.
The municipality has in past months indicated that it has the capacity to run the plant.
Comment could not be obtained from Minister Kasukuwere yesterday.
Online Reporter