The Free State Health MEC Monyatso Mahlatsi disconnects illegal water connection in Manapo hospital.
Tumelo Khotha
(The Post News)- Free State Health MEC Monyatso Mahlatsi disconnected illegal water connections at Mofumahadi Manapo Mopeli Regional Hospital, prioritizing the facility’s water needs and prompting a search for solutions for affected residents.
Following an investigation, MEC Mahlatsi discovered that nearby residents had illicitly tapped into the hospital’s water network, compromising its ability to maintain a stable water supply. Recognizing the potential risks, Mahlatsi swiftly severed the unauthorized connections, emphasizing the hospital’s reliance on its water network for critical operations.
The MEC’s decisive action aimed to safeguard the hospital’s water reserves, ensuring uninterrupted services for staff and patients, particularly during emergencies. However, the move also brought attention to the broader issue of water access for local residents.
Malekula Melato, executive mayor of Maluti A Phofung (MAP) local municipality, viewed the situation as an opportunity to engage with affected residents and explore solutions. She announced plans for a public participation session to address the water supply challenges and find alternative solutions.
Evodia Tsoaela, one of the affected residents, welcomed the department’s intervention, hoping it would expedite efforts to resolve the water supply issues. The MEC’s visit concluded with the unveiling of a new signboard at the hospital’s entrance, symbolizing a renewed commitment to the facility’s upkeep and services.
The incident highlights the complexities of balancing institutional needs with community demands, underscoring the importance of collaborative problem-solving to ensure equitable access to essential services like water.
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