Lessons from Carolina: Acid mine drainage, access to water and intergovernmental relations

Abstract

Initiatives such as the Blue Drop and Green Drop certification programmes indicate government's commitment to improving the quality of drinking water. However, while many municipalities have made progress, there are still problems in the supply and quality of drinking water, particularly in rural areas. Residents' attempts in Mpumalanga to compel municipalities to provide a regular supply of safe drinking water were highlighted in three recent related High Court judgments.