Scientists sound alarm on failing water systems amid deadly cholera outbreak 

A group of senior scientists in South Africa has issued a warning about the failing water and sanitation infrastructure in the country, citing a collapse of water treatment works that could lead to multiple health and environmental emergencies.  

The warning comes in the wake of a cholera outbreak that has claimed the lives of at least 32 people this year.  

The scientists have called for immediate action to address the polluted drinking water and have made several recommendations, including the annual publication of an evaluation of water supply systems and amending legislation to empower the Department of Water and Sanitation to intervene in failing water suppliers.

The report highlights specific areas, such as Hammanskraal, Parys, Phake, and Kroonstad, where the water supply systems have been found to be contaminated or failing.  

The presence of sewage in streets and rivers, combined with dirty drinking water or no water at all, has been identified as contributing to the cholera outbreak. 

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