Residents frustrated over extended water shutdown
Multiple faults were identified by technicians, resulting in further work.
Residents of some parts of Brakpan faced a miserable weekend without water after problems arose during a planned shutdown.
Water to Dalpark Exts 1, 9 and 11, Carnival City, Mall@Carnival and Helderwyk was shut off last Thursday morning to fix a leak and conduct a bulk water meter upgrade.
Water was supposed to be restored later that afternoon but was only restored on Monday evening, much to the frustration of fed-up residents.
According to the City of Ekurhuleni, multiple defects were experienced on-site after completing the upgrade of the bulk water meter.
“The on-site team completed upgrading the bulk water meter as planned, however, upon opening the water line multiple faults were identified compelling the team to modify the whole water supply system,” said city spokesperson Zweli Dlamini.
He explained the technicians were working underground in a very confined space with water and where welding was required.
As a safety precaution, the team takes breaks in between the modification process to allow the water to subside before commencing with welding.
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This process also prolonged the restoration time. To mitigate the impact of the supply interruption, the city provided water tankers to the affected areas.
On Saturday, community member Riaan Marais sprang into action to help and brought his water tanker with borehole water to assist residents in Dalpark.
The water is tested frequently and is safe for human consumption. Freedom Front Plus PR Clr Riaan van Zyl joined Marais and helped residents fill containers with water.
At the time of publication on Tuesday (July 4), some areas were without water again.
