Water Unit

Gamagara Local Municipality is officially designated as a Water Services Authority (WSA) in terms of South Africa’s national water legislation. As a WSA, the municipality is legally responsible for planning, regulating and ensuring the sustainable delivery of water and sanitation services within its jurisdiction.

Under the Water Services Act, 1997 (Act 108 of 1997), all WSAs must ensure that communities have reliable, affordable and safe access to water services. Gamagara fulfils this mandate by preparing a legally required Water Services Development Plan (WSDP), setting municipal water by-laws, and overseeing the operation and maintenance of local water supply systems.

The municipality carries out its WSA functions according to the Municipal Structures Act, 1998 (Act 117 of 1998) and the Municipal Systems Act, 2000, which empower local municipalities to manage essential services directly or through approved service providers. As both a Water Services Authority and, where applicable, a Water Services Provider, Gamagara ensures that water treatment, bulk supply, storage and reticulation services meet national standards.

By exercising these legislated powers, Gamagara Local Municipality works to ensure sustainable water management, improved service reliability, and long-term water security for all residents and businesses in the municipal area.

The Water Unit ensures reliable access to safe drinking water through the management of water sources, purification plants, reservoirs, pipelines, and distribution networks. Its focus is on maintaining water quality standards, reducing water losses, improving operational efficiency, and expanding infrastructure to meet growing demand. The unit is committed to providing sustainable and compliant water services and quality tested water in accordance to SANS 241:2015, to all communities.