Residents in the Southern area of Cape Town urged to store water as City conducts urgent repairs on its bulk water main

Residents in the Southern area of Cape Town are advised to store enough water in clean sealed containers that will last for about two days, as the City of Cape Town will be doing urgent repairs on its bulk water main.

In a statement, the City says this work follows the two test-run shut-offs to determine the extent of the shut-off's impact, options for re-routing water supply, and locations for standpipes and tankers, to prepare for the repairs happening this weekend.

Areas affected include: Pelican Park, Eagle Park, New Horizon, Peacock Close, Pelican Heights, Strandfontein, San Remo, Bay View, Phumlani, Zeekoevlei, Grassy Park, Lotus River, Schaapkraal, Ottery, Wetton, Knole Park, Retreat, Heathfield, Steenberg, Elfindale, Marina Da Gama, Lavender Hill, Seawinds, Vrygrond, Parkwood Estate, Fairways, Southfield, Plumstead, Wynberg, Muizenberg, Lakeside and Diep River.

SUPPLIED - City of Cape Town: Areas affected by water shutdown

Acting Mayco Member for Water and Sanitation, Siseko Mbandezi, says the repairs will start at midday on Saturday and last until 16:00 on Sunday, and that water tankers will be provided.

‘’The Water and Sanitation maintenance team knows what must be done to address the current serious leak on the 915mm diameter water main. Our maintenance teams are doing their utmost to minimise the impacted areas, but the location of the leak and network operational needs means they have to shut off the newly installed 1200mm diameter bulk water valve to stop the flow of water temporarily for this essential work. This unfortunately, will result in a large area having its water supply disrupted. This is the only way the repairs can be conducted under safe working conditions,’' said Siseko Mbandezi, Acting Mayco Member for Water and Sanitation.

 

What residents need to know about larger-scale planned water supply disruptions:

·        Careful consideration has been given to the planning of this work to ensure it is being done at a time that is least disruptive to the water supply.

·        All sites where water and sanitation repairs and upgrades are conducted are deemed to be construction sites and are off-limits to members of the public.

·        Sometimes the maintenance work can be more complex than anticipated, resulting in it taking longer.

·        For a short period, after the supply has been restored, the water may be discoloured or look milky. This is because of trapped air in the pipes. If left to stand in a glass, the appearance will become clear, like normal.

 

How residents are advised to prepare for planned water supply disruptions:

·        Store enough water in clean sealed containers that will last for your use during this period.

·        Keep your taps closed to prevent any water loss and/or damage when the water supply is restored.

 

Done By: Mitchum George