Story by Grace Sibanda
Government says it is working on robust short term measures to address water challenges in the city of Bulawayo.
The assurance comes as some residents have gone for weeks without the precious liquid.
With the water crisis escalating each day in Bulawayo, residents are forced to resort to alternative water sources in search of the precious source that is proving to be more scarce day by day.
“We have had no water for the past 3 months and when water does come, it is in very small quantities such that it is not enough for everyone. We now rely on buying water from bowsers,” a Bulawayo resident said.
Another added, “This water has been flowing for a long time and since we do not have any water in our taps, we come and fetch here.”
“We have had no water for a long time and we really need the government to assist us because the situation is no longer nice at all.”
Government has, however, not remained mum to the plight of its citizens as efforts are being channeled towards activating the newly identified aquifer between Umzingwane and Hope Fountain area.
Bulawayo Metropolitan Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution Honourable Judith Ncube said, “We understand the gravity of the situation in Bulawayo and we as government, are committed to finding a short-term solution as an alternative to the Gwayi Shangani which is a long term. A company is still surveying the area between Hope Fountain and Umzingwane where we have been advised that there is a huge source of water that’s there awaiting us to explore it for the benefit of the people.
Government’s response to provide a short term solution to the Bulawayo water crisis is a step in the right direction towards enhancing Bulawayo community’s access to a steady supply of clean water.
