Tshwane Water Alert– Residents across the City of Tshwane are being urged to prepare for temporary water supply shortages as Rand Water undertakes a major round of scheduled maintenance at key infrastructure points. Starting on 29 May 2025, the water utility will carry out essential upgrades at two of its major pumping stations, a move expected to disrupt water supply across large parts of the metro.
Planned Maintenance to Cause Shortages in Tshwane
According to Rand Water, the upcoming four-and-a-half-day operation will involve connecting the new B16 pipeline to Engine Room 3 at the Mapleton Booster Pumping Station. The pipeline is designed to transport water from Station 5 at the Zuikerbosch Water Treatment Plant. During this period, there will be no pumping from Rand Water’s system, significantly affecting the supply to Tshwane.
In tandem with the Mapleton work, Rand Water will also isolate the Klipriviersberg Master Reservoir on 3 June 2025 from 6am to 4pm to conduct cleaning and inspections. During this 10-hour window, pumping at the Palmiet Booster Station will be reduced to just 67% of its capacity.
Tshwane Water Alert Affected Areas and Infrastructure
The City of Tshwane has identified numerous reservoirs and meter points that will be impacted by the upcoming work. These include:
- Corobrick Plant
- Carina Street Reservoir
- Eersterust Reservoir
- Elardus Park Reservoir
- Garsfontein Reservoir
- Kilner Park Reservoir
- Koedoesnek LL Reservoir
- Magalieskruin Reservoir
- Mamelodi R1 and R2 Reservoirs
- Montana Reservoir
- Moreleta Reservoir
This maintenance follows closely on the heels of an earlier 14-day operation at the Hartebeesthoek Reservoir, which was abruptly halted after just four days due to public outcry from residents in Soshanguve and Mabopane who were left without water. The decision to curtail that project reflects the City’s sensitivity to community concerns.
Measures to Mitigate Disruptions
To limit the impact of the planned maintenance, the City of Tshwane will pre-fill the affected reservoirs to over 80% capacity before work begins. City spokesperson Selby Bokaba confirmed that roaming water tankers will also be deployed to provide emergency relief, particularly to vulnerable areas and facilities such as clinics, schools, and old-age homes.
“Our technicians will ensure the optimal operation of the city’s water sources during the maintenance period,” Bokaba said. “We are appealing to residents to use water sparingly and to store adequate water in preparation for possible supply interruptions.”
Broader Strategy Behind the Upgrades
The planned upgrades aim to bolster long-term reliability and efficiency in water delivery. Rand Water’s ongoing maintenance is part of a larger infrastructure improvement plan designed to address ageing pipelines, reduce unplanned breakdowns, and increase resilience amid growing urban demand.
By connecting the new B16 pipeline and performing reservoir inspections, the utility is reinforcing its commitment to modernising the network. This approach follows global best practices for preventive maintenance, prioritising short-term inconvenience in exchange for long-term service reliability.
What Residents Can Do to Prepare
The City of Tshwane advises residents to:
- Store Water: Fill containers, buckets, and bathtubs before 29 May.
- Conserve Usage: Postpone non-essential water tasks.
- Stay Updated: Monitor the City’s social media platforms for live updates.
- Report Problems: Contact your local ward councillor or the municipal call centre for urgent needs.
Looking Ahead
Although temporary disruptions are inevitable, this Tshwane Water Alert underscores the importance of continued investment in critical infrastructure. Residents are reminded that short-term sacrifices today are paving the way for a more resilient and efficient water supply system tomorrow.
By maintaining open communication and taking proactive steps, the City aims to ensure minimal disruption while laying the foundation for better service delivery in the future.
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