Ekurhuleni’s Ongoing Water Supply Challenges
The City of Ekurhuleni has reported a persistent issue of insufficient water supply from Rand Water, impacting several areas within the city. This prolonged problem has led to ongoing disruptions for residents.
Monitoring Reservoirs Affected by Insufficient Supply
The city has been closely monitoring the reservoirs affected by the inadequate water supply originating from Rand Water’s Mapleton Pump Station. These reservoirs play a critical role in distributing water to various areas, and their insufficiency has posed significant challenges.
Affected Areas and City’s Advice to Customers
Several areas in the city continue to be affected by this water supply issue. In response, the City of Ekurhuleni has taken steps to mitigate the problem. They are deploying roving water tankers to the affected areas to provide residents with access to water. Additionally, residents are strongly advised to use water sparingly during this period to allow the supply system to build up enough pressure.
Tshwane’s Similar Struggle with Rand Water
It’s worth noting that Ekurhuleni is not the only municipality facing problems with Rand Water’s water supply. The City of Tshwane has also experienced similar challenges, and this issue escalated to the Ministry of Water and Sanitation.
Government Intervention and Demands
In response to the crisis, the Deputy Minister of Water and Sanitation, David Mahlobo, intervened. He issued a directive, giving Rand Water and the City of Tshwane a two-week timeframe to collaborate on a comprehensive plan. This plan must ensure uninterrupted water supply to the affected areas. It should address challenges arising from factors such as high temperatures, load shedding, non-revenue water, and additional water allocation from Rand Water.
Focus on Long-Term Solutions and Leak Reduction
Deputy Minister Mahlobo emphasized the need for a medium- to long-term plan to address these water supply issues effectively. This plan should also incorporate strategies to tackle water losses due to leaks within the distribution system. The directive was given during a meeting between Rand Water and the City of Tshwane, highlighting the urgency and importance of resolving these water supply challenges.
Ongoing Efforts to Address the Crisis
As these municipalities grapple with ongoing water supply problems, the government’s involvement and commitment to finding lasting solutions are evident. Residents in affected areas continue to hope for a resolution to these challenges to ensure reliable access to water in their communities.