Parts of Heidelberg are experiencing ongoing water supply challenges as reservoir levels remain critically low, according to an update issued by Lesedi Local Municipality on August 20.

The municipality said its technical team had successfully repaired three of the five leaks identified in the water network.

The remaining two leaks require specialised equipment, which the municipality is currently sourcing to complete the outstanding repairs.

The situation was further compounded by a significant drop in intake pressure recorded by technicians during the day, which resulted in declining reservoir levels.

At the time of the municipality’s update, the Command and Hill reservoirs were at 5%, the Rensburg Reservoir at 10%, and the Emmasdal Reservoir at 30%.

The municipality said the critically low reservoir levels, reduced system pressure and infrastructure failures are affecting water supply in several parts of Heidelberg.

Residents in Jordaan Park are affected by a burst pipe, while Bergsig is experiencing reduced supply due to low pressure in the reservoir.

The Heidelberg Mall area is also affected by the reduction in available water. Other parts of Heidelberg may experience low pressure or intermittent water supply as the municipality works to stabilise the system.

The municipality said it had notified Rand Water of the current supply levels and that water would reach affected areas once the bulk water supply increases.

The technical team will continue working to restore and stabilise the network, replenish depleted reservoirs and normalise water supply to affected communities.

Repairs to the two outstanding leaks were expected to continue on August 21, subject to the availability of the required specialised equipment.

Residents and businesses will be kept informed of significant developments and progress on the repairs.