Eskom and Rand Water are set to begin the second phase of their planned infrastructure maintenance programme later this week, following the successful completion of the first phase earlier this year.

Phase 1 of the maintenance programme took place between May 29 and June 2, during which Eskom carried out essential work on critical electrical infrastructure.

The maintenance aimed to improve the reliability and stability of the bulk water supply system and to ensure it continues to operate efficiently.

Rand Water thanked municipalities, residents, businesses, industries and other stakeholders for their patience and cooperation during the first phase.

Phase 2

The second phase of the maintenance programme will begin at 07:00 on July 17, and end at 19:00 on July 19. The work will include electrical maintenance by Eskom at the Zuikerbosch Purification Plant, as well as the completion of cross-connections between old and new pipelines.

During the maintenance period, Rand Water’s pumping capacity will be reduced across several systems. The Palmiet System will operate at 78% capacity, supplying 1 600 megalitres of water per day.

The Zwartkopjes System will run at 50% capacity, while the Eikenhof System will operate at 55%. No pumping will take place at the Mapleton System for 12 hours during the maintenance period.

The reduced pumping capacity could result in low water pressure or intermittent water supply in some municipal areas, depending on reservoir levels and water consumption.

Affected areas

Municipalities have been encouraged to implement water management measures and keep residents informed of any potential disruptions.

Areas expected to be affected include Sandton, Randjieslaagte, Midrand, Linksfield, South Hills, Crown Gardens, Commando, which comprises Brixton, Crosby and Hurst Hill, Randburg, Roodeport, Soweto, Lenasia, CBD systems which include Yeoville, Berea-Parktown, Alan Manor, Aeroton, Eagles Nest, and Parktown.

CoE to carry out maintenance

Rand Water said it had issued a 21-day notice to all affected municipalities, industries and direct customers to allow time for contingency planning and reduce the impact of potential water supply disruptions.

The City of Ekurhuleni will also carry out electrical maintenance at the Mapleton Booster Pumping Station during the same period. Its work is scheduled for July 17 from 08:00 to 18:00.

According to Rand Water, aligning the city’s maintenance with its own programme will help reduce operational disruptions, improve coordination and ensure that all required work is completed as efficiently as possible.

Rand Water said it will continue to provide regular updates before and during the maintenance through its official communication channels, including its website and social media platforms.

The utility said the planned maintenance forms part of ongoing investment in critical infrastructure to improve the long-term reliability, resilience and sustainability of the bulk water supply system for the benefit of all customers.