Planned Water Supply Maintenance: Ensuring Future Continuity and Reducing Water Wastage

The Water and Sanitation Directorate has announced planned maintenance work on certain water supply infrastructure in selected areas. The program is part of the Directorate’s proactive infrastructure upgrade and maintenance effort. The work is scheduled to take place between June 13 and June 14 and aims to ensure future continuity of water supply and address the issue of unaccounted-for water. However, residents should be aware that this maintenance work may result in temporary water supply disruptions.

Areas Affected

The areas that will be affected by the planned maintenance work include Bellville CBD, Triangle Farm, Bellville South, Labiance, Greenlands, Glenhaven, Stikland, Kenridge, De Bron, Welgemoed, and Hillcrest – Somerset West.

Timing and Duration

To install a water meter on the main pipeline, the water supply will be shut off from 10:00 to 17:00 on Tuesday, June 13. This maintenance work was initially scheduled for June 6 but was postponed due to technical issues. Additionally, zero-pressure tests, step tests, and conditional assessments will be conducted in Mowbray, Salt River, and Woodstock from 21:00 on June 13 until 04:00 on June 14, resulting in intermittent water supply disruptions or complete water outages in the affected areas.

Purpose of Testing

Zero-pressure and step testing are essential components of the pressure management technology installation process. These tests help identify unmapped inflows before installing smart pressure-reducing valves. Pressure reducing valves (PRVs) in the water supply network are managed to ensure the proper functioning of PRVs. By managing pressures at predetermined settings, PRVs help preserve the pipeline’s lifespan and minimize water wastage from burst pipes. Although pressure fluctuations may occur during testing, they will be minimized as much as possible.

Impact on Residents

Some residents may experience low water pressure or temporary water outages during the overnight testing period, but it is impossible to predict which areas or streets will be affected. Construction sites may be off-limits to the public during repairs and upgrades, and maintenance work can sometimes be more complex than anticipated, which may prolong the process.

Restoring Water Supply

Upon the restoration of water supply, residents may notice discolored or milky water due to trapped air in the pipes. Leaving the water to stand in a glass for a short period will result in a clear appearance. To stay updated on the maintenance work and the location of tankers, residents can follow @CityofCTAlerts, a City of Cape Town Twitter account.

Preparing for Water Supply Disruptions

Residents are advised to store enough water in clean, sealed containers and keep taps closed to prevent water loss or damage when the supply is restored. By adhering to these guidelines and staying informed about the maintenance activities, residents can help ensure a smoother process and contribute to the long-term sustainability of the city’s water supply.