Scheduled Water Supply Maintenance: Effects and Precautionary Measures

by
2 mins read
w a

The City’s Water and Sanitation Directorate has scheduled a series of essential maintenance works on the water supply infrastructure from 26 September to 5 October 2023. These vital measures aim to benefit customers by reducing water wastage, but they will result in temporary water supply disruptions in several areas. The City sincerely apologizes for any inconvenience caused and encourages residents to stay informed about the maintenance timetable.

Interruptions in Water Supply

Various areas of the city will be impacted by the planned maintenance work. In Claremont, Newlands, and Rondebosch, step-testing and zero-pressure tests (ZPT) will take place overnight on 26-27 September and 28-29 September to evaluate the water network’s state. During this period, residents may experience low water pressure or temporary water supply interruptions.

At the same time, Bizweni in Somerset West will undergo ZPT on the water supply network from 27-28 September, impacting the area’s water supply. ZPT and step-testing are essential for identifying unmapped inflows before installing smart pressure-reducing valves, a crucial component of the City’s Water Demand Management Strategy. These tests ensure the proper functioning of pressure-reducing valves (PRVs), reducing pipe bursts and water wastage.

Furthermore, other maintenance procedures, such as pipe and valve installations, repairs, and replacements, will occur in various locations:

  • Nonkqubela area in Site B, Khayelitsha: test shut off on 26 September for the installation of a 450mm diameter valve on the primary water supply pipeline
  • Northern parts of the City: closure of the Blackheath and Wemmershoek Water Treatment Plants on 26-27 September and 2-3 October respectively, to install large diameter water meters
  • Gordons Bay, Strand, and Somerset West: Steenbras Water Treatment Plant closure on 29 September for the replacement of a 400mm diameter water meter
  • Mowbray and Rondebosch: water supply main closure on 5 October for the installation of a 300mm diameter valve and repair of fire hydrants

During these maintenance procedures, residents of the affected areas should minimize their water usage. Water tankers will supply water for domestic consumption when necessary.

Essential Information for Residents

For larger-scale planned water supply interruptions, residents should keep in mind the following:

  1. Maintenance work has been strategically scheduled to limit water supply disruptions.
  2. All sites where water and sanitation repairs and upgrades take place are restricted to the public.
  3. Maintenance work may be more complicated than expected, potentially prolonging the duration of interruptions.
  4. When the supply is restored, the water may initially appear discolored or milky. This is due to air trapped in the pipes, and the water will clear if left to stand in a glass.

Updates on maintenance work and the location of tankers (when applicable) can be found on the City of Cape Town’s Twitter account, @CityofCTAlerts.

Preparing for Scheduled Water Supply Interruptions

Residents are encouraged to take the following precautions in anticipation of planned water supply interruptions:

  • Store an adequate amount of water in clean, sealed containers beforehand for use during this time.
  • Keep taps closed to prevent water loss or damage when the water supply is restored.

By staying informed and prepared, residents can minimize the impact of these scheduled water supply maintenance works on their daily lives. The City of Cape Town remains committed to proactively maintaining and upgrading its water and sanitation infrastructure, guaranteeing the future continuity of water supply, and addressing the issue of unaccounted-for water.

View all
l a
Previous Story

Outstanding Progress: The Triumphs of Law Enforcement in a Year

virtual tour destination marketing Cape Town
Next Story

Experience the Mother City Virtually: Cape Town Embraces Technology to Present Its Splendors

Latest from Blog

firefighters community outreach

Spreading Holiday Cheer: Firefighters Bring Joy to Children

In December 2024, firefighters brightened the holidays for children in care facilities by delivering wrapped gifts with big smiles. Partnering with Pick n Pay, they spread joy and gratitude after receiving support during a tough summer of wildfires. Each visit was a heartwarming reminder of kindness, as firefighters became symbols of generosity, teaching kids about empathy and community spirit. This joyful initiative shows how simple acts of giving can light up lives and strengthen bonds in the community.

justice gender-based violence

A Persistent Nightmare in Embalenhle: Justice Served

In Embalenhle, South Africa, a dark nightmare unfolded as Themba Prince Shongwe committed terrible crimes, including rapes and murders, from 2016 to 2018. The community lived in fear as he targeted innocent girls, causing heartbreak and loss. Finally, justice was served when he was found guilty and sentenced to nine life terms in prison, bringing relief to the grieving families and a sense of safety back to the community. This victory shines a light on the importance of standing against violence and working together to protect the vulnerable.

street lighting community safety

Illuminating Cape Town: Lighting Up Safety and Community

Cape Town’s streetlight program shines brightly as it manages over 245,000 lights, making the city safer and more inviting, especially during the festive season. The community plays a vital role by reporting issues and staying alert, working together to protect these lights from theft and vandalism. With a focus on sustainability, the city is switching to energyefficient LEDs, reducing its environmental impact while keeping streets welllit. This initiative not only lights up the city but also brings people together, creating a warm and safe atmosphere that showcases Cape Town’s beauty at night.

housing development community empowerment

A Beacon of Hope: Gugulethu’s New Housing Project

The Gugulethu Infill Housing Project is bringing joy and hope to the community of Gugulethu, South Africa, by building 52 new homes for deserving families. This celebration marks a fresh start for many, especially the elderly and middleaged residents who finally have a safe place to call home. As they move in, they not only gain shelter but also a sense of belonging and stability. This project symbolizes the community’s strength and resilience, showing that together, they can overcome challenges and build a brighter future. The new homes are more than just buildings; they represent dreams coming true and a promise of better days ahead.

colonel celeste van der klashorst gender-based violence

Championing Justice: The Journey of Colonel Celeste van der Klashorst

Colonel Celeste van der Klashorst is a fearless leader in South Africa’s fight against violence and crime, especially those targeting women and children. With over thirty years of service, she created Child Protection Units and now leads the National SECI Unit, tackling serious issues like serial rape and child pornography. Her team’s recent success in a major operation has led to arrests and rescued children, showing the powerful impact of her work. Colonel van der Klashorst inspires others with her passion for justice, making her a shining example of hope and resilience in the battle for a safer society.