Rand Water set for winter water supply interruptions due to critical Eskom maintenance
Residents across Johannesburg, Tshwane, Ekurhuleni and several other municipalities are being urged to prepare for possible water disruptions as Eskom carries out essential planned maintenance between late May and mid-July.
Rand Water has warned customers of upcoming water supply interruptions as Eskom undertakes critical planned maintenance at the Palmiet and Zuikerbosch sites.
The maintenance is scheduled to take place from 29 May 29 to July 17. It aims to improve pump availability and standby capacity, enhance operational flexibility, and reduce the risk of plant trips and equipment failures across key Rand Water systems. During this period, Rand Water will need to switch off some of its pumps, which will result in water supply interruptions.
Eskom and Rand Water have coordinated the planning and strategically scheduled the work for the winter season, traditionally a low-water-demand period. Rand Water will use the opportunity to carry out its own planned maintenance work.
The key maintenance activities include Eskom-related electrical maintenance at the Zuikerbosch and Palmiet systems, the installation and upgrading of motors at Zuikerbosch raw water engine room 4, the replacement of critical valves and thrust bearings at Palmiet, Vereeniging and Foresthill systems, and M11 pipeline cross-connections within the Mapleton system.
Customers in the cities of Johannesburg, Tshwane and Ekurhuleni, as well as the local municipalities of Mogale City, Rand West, Merafong, Rustenburg, Madibeng, Lesedi, Victor Khanye, Govan Mbeki, Thembisile Hani, Midvaal, Emfuleni, Metsimaholo, Ngwathe and the Royal Bafokeng Administration may be impacted. Various industries, mines and direct customers, including Airports Company South Africa, could also be affected.
Rand Water has issued a 21-day notice to all affected municipalities, industries and direct customers to give them sufficient time to implement contingency measures and minimise disruptions to consumers.
The utility will issue regular updates during the maintenance period through its official communication channels and social media platforms.
Follow us on our Whatsapp channel, Facebook, X, Instagram, and TikTok for the latest updates and inspiration!
