Thousands of people in Rhondda Cynon Taf have been instructed to continue boiling tap water following the aftermath of Storm Bert. The water contamination issue arose due to flooding at the Tynywaun Water Treatment Works near Treherbert, prompting Dwr Cymru (Welsh Water) to extend the boil notice for an additional week. Affected residents in various areas including Blaenrhondda, Blaencwm, Treherbert, and parts of Pentre and Tonypandy have been advised to boil water before consumption, affecting daily activities like cooking and hygiene routines.
Initially, a ‘boil water notice’ was scheduled from November 24 to December 1, but the situation deteriorated, necessitating an extension until December 8. The ongoing inconvenience has significantly impacted local businesses and residents, prompting Dwr Cymru to offer additional compensation to alleviate the hardships faced by the community. Recognising the challenges posed by the water contamination, the company has announced extra payments of £100 to affected residents and £200 to eligible businesses on top of the initial compensation sums.
The CEO of Dwr Cymru, Peter Perry, expressed gratitude for the community’s cooperation and patience while apologising for the inconvenience caused. The water treatment facility requires essential repairs, including the installation of waterproof membranes to prevent future flooding incidents. However, adverse weather conditions have hindered the restoration efforts, with dry weather conditions essential for successful completion. Despite the challenges, Perry assured residents that ensuring a safe and clean water supply remains the top priority for Welsh Water.
To mitigate the impact of the water contamination, Dwr Cymru has established three water bottle stations, distributing over 150,000 water bottles to date. The company has also delivered water bottles to vulnerable individuals, households, schools, nurseries, and hospitals. Additionally, individuals requiring assistance can register for Welsh Water’s Priority Services by contacting the customer service team at 0800 052 0130, available 24/7. The efforts aim to support those most affected by the prolonged boil notice and ensure the well-being of the community.
The situation highlights the resilience and unity of the community in facing challenges brought about by natural disasters. The dedication of Dwr Cymru teams working around the clock to restore normalcy reflects a commitment to public health and safety. As the repair works progress, the collective effort to overcome the water contamination crisis underscores the importance of preparedness and cooperation in times of adversity. By adhering to safety guidelines and support measures, the community navigates through the aftermath of Storm Bert with resilience and determination towards a swift recovery.