All You Need to Know About Planned Water Supply Disruptions

The City’s Water and Sanitation Directorate has scheduled planned maintenance work in various areas to maintain and improve the water supply infrastructure. The work will take place between 7 and 12 May 2023, and residents in affected areas should be aware of the upcoming activities. This article provides a comprehensive guide to the types of work planned, affected areas, and advice for residents during these disruptions.

Types of Work: Zero-Pressure Tests, Step Tests, and Conditional Assessments

The affected areas include Delft and Bizweni, where zero-pressure tests on their main water supplies will take place on 9 May and 11 May, respectively. These tests are part of the installation process for pressure management technology, which aims to identify any unmapped inflows before installing smart pressure-reducing valves. This technology will help to maintain optimal water pressure in the network, reducing the risk of pipe bursts and water wastage.

During the overnight testing period, residents in these areas may experience low water pressure or temporary water outages. Unfortunately, it is impossible to predict which specific locations will be affected.

Conditional testing ensures the effective functioning of pressure reducing valves (PRVs) within the water supply network. By managing pressures at designated settings, PRVs help preserve the pipeline’s lifespan and decrease water wastage from pipe bursts. Although pressure fluctuations may occur, they will be minimized as much as possible.

These activities align with the City’s Water Demand Management Strategy, which focuses on reducing pipe bursts and water wastage through effective water pressure management.

Maintenance Work: Pipe and Valve Installations, Repairs, and Replacements

Several areas, including Bellville CBD, Triangle Farm, Bellville South, Labiance, Greenlands, Glenhaven, and Stikland, are scheduled for urgent replacement of faulty control valves on their main water supply. The water supply will be shut off from 9 May at 19:00 until 10 May at 04:30.

These maintenance activities form part of the Water and Sanitation Directorate’s proactive infrastructure maintenance program, which aims to secure the future continuity of water supply while addressing unaccounted-for water issues.

Considerations and Advice for Residents During Disruptions

The City has carefully planned these maintenance works to minimize disruption to water supply. However, all sites are considered construction zones and are off-limits to the public. Due to the complex nature of the work, unforeseen delays may sometimes occur.

After the water supply is restored, residents may notice discolored or milky water. This is due to trapped air in the pipes and will clear if left to stand in a glass.

To prepare for these planned disruptions, residents are advised to store enough water in clean, sealed containers and to keep their taps closed to avoid water loss or damage when water supply returns.