As government continues to roll out new water infrastructure, Water and Sanitation Deputy Minister Pamela Tshwete has called on communities to ensure that it remains protected from vandalism and theft.

Deputy Minister Tshwete made the call on Friday during the official hand over of the R153 million Colesberg Bulk Water Supply Scheme to the Umsobomvu Local Municipality in Northern Cape.

The project includes the construction of a 25 kilometre pipeline abstracting water from the Orange River to Colesberg, a new river abstraction works, a new pump station with complete civil, mechanical, electrical and electronic works.

It also includes the upgrading and extension of the existing Colesberg Water Treatment Works.

The municipality has attained 96% access to water services, amounting to about 27 318 people, while sanitation access currently stands at 90%.

Accompanied by the Mayor of the Umsobomvu Local Municipality Mayor Nombulelo Hermans on Friday, Deputy Minister Tshwete said the theft and vandalism of infrastructure remained a sore point for government.

She urged the community to ensure that they retain the infrastructure in its original condition so that they can enjoy its benefits.

“This infrastructure belongs to all of us, government and community. It is therefore our joint and collective responsibility to ensure it remains protected and far divorced from vandalism and theft,” said Deputy Minister Tshwete.

She further urged the community members to report all illegal activities to the municipality and the police

The Deputy Minister said that working together, the department, province, district and local municipalities will assist with the remaining 2 928 people who are still not receiving sanitation.

This backlog was primarily in the informal settlements.