Bronkhorstspruit:The City of Tshwane Municipality has issued a warning to residents in the Bronkhorstspruit area, advising them not to use tap water for human consumption following laboratory results indicating serious bacterial contamination.

According to South African Government News Agency, the contamination was revealed after 408 cases of gastrointestinal illness were reported in the Bronkhorstspruit area between October 7 and 18, 2026. The affected regions include Bronkhorstspruit, Zithobeni, Rethabiseng, Ekandustria, Ekangala, Dark City, and communities supplied by the cross-border water system to Thembisile Hani Local Municipality.

The municipality has stated that tap water should only be used for flushing toilets until further notice. Residents are instructed to rely on safe water supplied by city-owned water tankers until the contamination issue is resolved. The warning follows the detection of high levels of E. coli and other bacteria in water samples taken from local treatment plants and reservoirs on October 14, 2026.

The municipality emphasized that boiling the contaminated tap water will not render it safe for use. Residents are advised to discard stored tap water and sanitize storage containers before refilling them with safe water from the tankers. Water tankers will continue to provide free drinking water, with testing conducted to ensure its safety. Residents are encouraged to report any delivery issues or assist those unable to collect water themselves.

The city assures residents that efforts are ongoing to resolve the water quality issue and restore safe water supplies. Official updates will be shared via the city's communication channels, and residents are urged to adhere to the current restrictions and share verified information with their neighbors. The municipality has expressed gratitude for the community’s patience and cooperation during this period.

Source South African Government News Agency