The Commission is particularly concerned that the Metro has failed to meet its self-imposed deadline of 15 February 2024. The Metro had committed to resolve the ongoing water supply challenges to affected areas by Thursday, 15 February 2024. The Commission in its inquiry report found that Water Services Authorities, such as the Metro, were in violation of the rights to  access clean drinking water. The Commission is concerned that not much seems to be done to arrest this ongoing violation of the constitutional right to have access to water in the Metro. The Commission is doubtful that the Metro has the capacity to turn this dire situation around. This is so particularly given that a report indicates that the water and sanitation unit of the Metro – which is a key vehicle in water provision – has no strategic business plan in place and is currently beset by 52% vacancy rate.

In that regard, and in line with its mandate of taking steps to secure appropriate redress where human rights have been violated, the Commission will on 06 March 2024 convene a meeting of water experts who reside in the Metro, and who share in the common and mutual interest of finding solutions to the water challenges in the Metro.
The Commission calls upon interested water experts, such as water engineers amongst others, to indicate their interest to attend the meeting by sending their RSVPs to Andrea Pillay at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or Mandy Ramare at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. The RSVPs should reach the Commission by Thursday, 29 February 2024.

Further, the Constitution empowers the Commission to promote the protection, development, and attainment of human rights in fulfilling its mandate.  As such, litigation is an option the Commission can take in addressing this water crisis in eThekwini.

Ends

For further information contact SAHRC KZN Provincial Manager, Ms Pavershree Padayachee on Tel: 031 304 7323 or Cell: 082 802 9111 or via Email at: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.