Masvingo council bans bathing in streams and reservoirs to protect water supply

MASVINGO - The Masvingo Town Council has officially banned bathing, washing, and disposal of waste in streams, reservoirs, aqueducts, and other water sources under its jurisdiction, citing concerns over water pollution and public health risks.

The prohibition is outlined in Statutory Instrument 122 of 2025, Chapter 29:15, specifically under Section 31, which governs pollution of water supply systems.

According to the by-law, no person shall bathe, wash, dispose of waste, or allow animals to enter any water source that is wholly or partially owned by the council and used for supplying water to residents. The regulation also prohibits the discharge of unclean water, sewage, or industrial liquids into these sources without written permission from the council.

"No person shall… perform any act whereby the water of the council intended for supply to the inhabitants of the area of supply may be polluted," the by-law states.

The council emphasised that the measure is aimed at preserving water quality, especially as the city prepares for the rainy season, and ensuring that public water infrastructure remains safe and hygienic for consumption.

Violators may face penalties under the local government's environmental protection framework.