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According to a voice note being circulated on social media, a dark cloud looms over Newcastle, with the threat of the town’s water supply being cut off due to uThukela Water employees going on strike.
The voice note goes as far as to encourage residents to collect and store bulk water, as there will be water shortages due to the strike.
However, the Newcastle Municipality emphasises there is absolutely no truth in the claim, stating it is both dismayed and shocked by the rumours circulated via the message. Elaborating on the matter, Head of the Municipality’s Communications Unit, Mlungisi Khumalo, says, “The municipality would like to place it on record, that it is unaware of such a strike and furthermore dismisses this rumour with the contempt that it deserves.”
Furthermore, he emphasises that the municipality is saddened because these rumours have spread throughout social media, sparking unnecessary panic. “Residents are urged to ignore the voice note and refrain from bulk collection of water as this might put a strain on the water supply. The country is currently grappling with strained water supply due to drought, and this could be detrimental to the already existing problem.”
It is crucial to note that the spreading of malicious and damaging fake news is a crime, resulting in possible jail time. “Anyone with information about the creator of the voice note is urged to notify the municipality speedily,” affirms Khumalo. A case of defamation against the perpetrator will then be opened with the relevant law enforcement agency.
While residents are encouraged to continue using water sparingly, Khumalo says, “The municipality is committed to dispensing basic services to all its residents.”
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