Lupane residents fear the worst from stinky tap water

By Thembelihle Mhlanga

Residents in Lupane urban have expressed fear and displeasure over the stinking water they have been consuming in the past week.

The residents told Community Podium that the taste and smell of the water flowing from their taps is a cause for concern and a source of dread as they have no idea about the cause of the unpleasant stench.

One resident who requested anonymity said that the water authority Zimbabwe National Water Authority is taking residents for a ride as the latter allegedly has a penchant for technical terms that are beyond the understanding of the general public when explaining the problem behind the stinking water.

“The water has a somewhat fishy smell, making it very difficult to consume or use.  ZINWA circulated some misunderstood statement that left residents more confused and skeptical. I suspect that something is not right with the authority.” complained the resident.

However when asked for comment, the  ZINWA Corporate Communications and Marketing Manager Mrs Majorie Manyonga said that the stinking water is caused by rapid inflows that caused the dead water to rise causing the resting water to be pumped into the supply tank.

“New inflows will displace the water already in the dam because of the temperature differences and the lower water rises to the top with its smell.The smell is a result of the prolonged stagnancy of the water” said Manyonga

The residents have been using and drinking this unpalatable water for two weeks, giving rise to growing fears of water borne diseases’ outbreaks.