NCOP slams Nketoana over R42 million bulk water project failuresNCOP slams Nketoana over R42 million bulk water project failuresNCOP slams Nketoana over R42 million bulk water project failures
During oversight visits across the Thabo Mofutsanyane district this week as part of Parliament’s Provincial Week, delegates discovered that construction of a three-megalitre reservoir in Petrus Steyn and upgrades to the raw water and high-lift pump stations in Reitz were terminated midstream.
Municipal officials confirmed they are now pursuing legal action to recover the wasted funds.
Delegation leader Bheki Radebe said it was “deeply disturbing” that companies entrusted with essential infrastructure could simply walk away.
He said the municipality must “leave no stone unturned” in recovering state funds, adding that companies that abandon projects must be blacklisted.
The delegation found a stark contrast in Warden, where a R36-million upgrade to the wastewater treatment works is progressing on schedule and within budget.
The project was launched after the old plant – strained by rapid population growth, ageing equipment and rising industrial effluent – could no longer meet regulatory standards.
The upgrade will expand treatment capacity and modernise critical systems to curb persistent bypasses and ensure reliable, long-term wastewater management.
Delegates commended the project team, calling it refreshing to see a “project actually running on time and on budget”.
Completion is expected in December 2026.
The delegation continues its programme this Thursday with inspections in Phuthaditjhaba and Bethlehem, before engaging community stakeholders at the Phuthaditjhaba Multi-Purpose Centre on how to improve basic services.
Held under the theme “Building Viable Municipalities for Enhanced Delivery of Basic Services to Communities”, the Provincial Week brings NCOP delegates back to the provinces to test the reality on the ground.
It reinforces Parliament’s mandate under Section 42(4) of the Constitution to strengthen oversight, promote accountability and ensure that provincial concerns are heard at national level.