Restore supply

21 October 2009 - 02:00
By unknown

THE circumstances which have led to water supply to 22 Limpopo schools being cut unceremoniously, disrupting classes for 24 000 pupils shortly before year-end exams, warrant an urgent government probe.

THE circumstances which have led to water supply to 22 Limpopo schools being cut unceremoniously, disrupting classes for 24 000 pupils shortly before year-end exams, warrant an urgent government probe.

Yesterday this newspaper reported that the Greater BaPhalaborwa Municipality had embarked on this deplorable route because it is owed R4,5 million.

We find the council's actions unacceptable as they have had unintended consequence of not only disrupting schooling but exposing children to unhygienic conditions and putting their health at risk.

The authorities could have pursued other avenues to recover the outstanding amounts rather than negate constitutional provisions which guarantee every child the right to have access to water and protection from degradation.

The provincial government must prevail on the municipality to restore water supply to these schools as a matter of urgency.