Perceptions and investigation of poor quality water supplied to the resident of the city of Bloemfontein

Abstract

The Mangaung Metropolitan Municipality (MMM) still experiences challenges in addressing water shortages, a problem that has affected socioeconomic development, the agriculture sector, and the municipal population. The systematic water interruptions to the city have fuelled the perception of the residents regarding poor water quality supplied to the city. The purpose of the study was to examine the existing water infrastructure and quality supplied by the Vaal Central Water and the Mangaung Metropolitan Municipality to residents of Bloemfontein, and to assess community perceptions of the supplied water quality. The study used a mixed-methods approach with two stages. The first stage included a quantitative approach with the use of a questionnaire (n=115) to collect data on the community perception of supplied water quality. Graphical representation and data analysis were conducted using Microsoft Excel. The second stage involved the collection of water samples from two sources (Vaal Central Water and MMM water works) for water quality laboratory testing. A spectrophotometer, inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry, inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectroscopy, as well as a heterotrophic plate count and the IDEXX Colilert, were used to analyze the microbial and physicochemical parameters. The study shows a correlation between the colour of water samples and respondents’ perceptions of colour and turbidity. Results indicate elevated levels of zinc, colour, and microbial contaminants exceeding SANS 241 standards, correlating with negative public perceptions of organoleptic properties; the majority of residents do not trust the quality of the tap water, and 79.1% of respondents believed authorities did not adequately communicate concerning water quality issues. The study concludes that respondents hold a negative impression of their water, which was driven by a lack of trust in the Municipality and negative organoleptic properties; although Bloemfontein’s municipal water infrastructure largely delivers water that complies with SANS standards, shortcomings in maintenance, efficiency, and public awareness drive community dissatisfaction and water insecurity, emphasizing the importance of better communication and enhanced water quality management.