The City of Cape Town is conducting essential maintenance operations from December 5th to 8th, 2023 to improve the water supply network’s effectiveness and durability. This may cause temporary water supply disruptions in specific areas, so residents are advised to prepare by storing adequate water in clean, sealed containers beforehand. The maintenance work includes zero-pressure tests, conditional assessments, pipe and valve installations, repairs, and replacements, which aim to lower the incidence of pipe bursts and water wastage and ensure continued water security for all residents.

What is the City of Cape Town’s Water Supply Restoration plan?

The City of Cape Town’s Water and Sanitation Directorate is conducting essential maintenance operations from December 5th to 8th, 2023 to improve the effectiveness and durability of the water supply network. The maintenance work includes zero-pressure tests, conditional assessments, pipe and valve installations, repairs, and replacements. Some residents may witness low water pressure or temporary water supply loss during this period, so it is advised to prepare by storing adequate water in clean, sealed containers beforehand.

The City’s Water and Sanitation Directorate is set to conduct an array of essential maintenance operations from December 5th to 8th, 2023. This strategic maintenance work aims to improve the effectiveness and durability of our water supply network. However, it may cause temporary water service disruptions in specific areas. The Directorate seeks the indulgence and patience of the residents affected, and strongly advises them to prepare for this short-term inconvenience.

Maintenance Operation Details

The forthcoming operations are multifaceted. A significant aspect consists of Zero-pressure tests (ZPTs) and conditional assessments. These will mainly impact the regions of Somerset West, Stuart’s Hill, Martinville, Die Wingerd, Greenway Rise, and Lionviham (Bizweni – Somerset West). The ZPTs are slated to begin at 21:00 on Thursday, December 7th, 2023, and continue overnight until 04:00 on Friday, December 8th, 2023.

These tests are a crucial part of the installation process for pressure management technology. They allow the maintenance team to detect any uncharted inflows before the installation of smart pressure-reducing valves. As a result, some residents may witness low water pressure or temporary water supply loss during this overnight testing period. The unpredictability of these disruptions emphasizes the need for residents to be prepared.

The conditional testing, conversely, is an essential measure to assure the optimal functioning of the pressure-reducing valves (PRVs) in the water supply network. This helps preserve the pipeline’s lifespan and curtails water wastage due to pipe bursts. This operation aligns with the City’s Water Demand Management Strategy, aiming to lower the incidence of pipe bursts and water wastage.

Pipe and Valve Installations, Repairs, and Replacements

Another vital part of the maintenance work includes pipe and valve installations, repairs, and replacements. Goodwood, Site C (Khayelitsha), a significant portion of Gordon’s Bay (Dobson), Plumstead, Southfield, and Westlake Industrial are among the locations marked for these maintenance procedures. The scheduled works in these areas may cause sporadic water supply interruption. This is because the team will be performing tasks ranging from new pipeline installations to repair and replacement of valves and fire hydrants.

The Water and Sanitation Directorate’s proactive infrastructure maintenance and upgrade program is of utmost importance. It addresses the problem of unaccounted-for water and ensures the future sustainability of water supply. While the City apologizes for any inconvenience this may cause, it is crucial to guarantee continued water security for all residents.

Advice for Residents

For residents who will be affected by large-scale planned water supply disruptions, it is important to note several factors. First, the work schedule has been carefully chosen to cause the least disruption. Second, all sites where repairs and upgrades are carried out are strictly prohibited for the public, due to their status as construction zones. Third, occasionally, the maintenance work’s complexity may extend its duration beyond the initially estimated time. Finally, residents may notice discolored or milky water immediately after the water supply is restored, resulting from trapped air in the pipes. However, this discoloration will resolve itself if the water is left standing in a glass.

Residents are encouraged to prepare for planned water supply interruptions by storing adequate water in clean, sealed containers beforehand. Also, it is advised to keep taps closed to prevent water wastage or potential damage when the water supply is restored. For updates on the maintenance work and the location of water tankers (where appropriate), residents can follow the official City of Cape Town Twitter account @CityofCTAlerts.

In conclusion, although the scheduled maintenance work may disrupt some residents’ daily routines, it is a necessary measure for ensuring the long-term efficiency and durability of the city’s water supply infrastructure. The City expresses its gratitude for your understanding and cooperation during this period.

When will the scheduled maintenance work take place?

The scheduled maintenance work will take place from December 5th to 8th, 2023.

What areas will be affected by the maintenance work?

The maintenance work will mainly impact the regions of Somerset West, Stuart’s Hill, Martinville, Die Wingerd, Greenway Rise, Lionviham (Bizweni – Somerset West), Goodwood, Site C (Khayelitsha), Gordon’s Bay (Dobson), Plumstead, Southfield, and Westlake Industrial.

What kind of maintenance work will be done?

The maintenance work includes zero-pressure tests, conditional assessments, pipe and valve installations, repairs, and replacements.

Will there be any water supply disruptions during the maintenance work?

Yes, some residents may witness low water pressure or temporary water supply loss during the maintenance work period. It is advised to prepare by storing adequate water in clean, sealed containers beforehand.

What should residents do during the maintenance work period?

Residents should prepare for planned water supply interruptions by storing adequate water in clean, sealed containers beforehand. It is also advised to keep taps closed to prevent water wastage or potential damage when the water supply is restored. For updates on the maintenance work and the location of water tankers (where appropriate), residents can follow the official City of Cape Town Twitter account @CityofCTAlerts.

Why is the maintenance work necessary?

The maintenance work is necessary to improve the effectiveness and durability of the city’s water supply infrastructure, lower the incidence of pipe bursts, and ensure continued water security for all residents.