Work at the Vredefort Water Treatment Plant has been suspended after workers allegedly did not receive their wages, according to reports.

Several subcontractors are also reportedly awaiting outstanding payments from the main contractor. The dispute has brought work on the project to a standstill.

The Democratic Alliance has announced that it will request an urgent report from the Administrator of Ngwathe Local Municipality on the work stoppage and the steps being taken to ensure construction resumes.

The party has called for an investigation into the alleged non-payment of workers and subcontractors, the settlement of any outstanding payments, and a public update on the project’s progress and expected completion date.

The Vredefort Water Treatment Plant is intended to improve access to safe and reliable drinking water for residents who have experienced years of frequent supply interruptions and ageing water infrastructure.

Any delay to the project is likely to prolong the challenges experienced by households, businesses and institutions that continue to face an unreliable water supply.

There are calls for all parties involved to resolve the contractual disputes to prevent further disruption and to ensure workers and subcontractors receive payment for services rendered.

Residents are awaiting clarity from the municipality on the status of the project and when construction is expected to resume.