13 burst pipes over Easter weekend

Increased water supply over the Easter weekend resulted in 13 burst pipes, when the aging asbestos pipes failed to manage the sudden increase in water pressure.

The largest pipe to burst, a 400mm pipe under the new bridge on High Street, left Bhekuzulu, Sasko and the industrial area completely dry for days until the Department of Water and Sanitation found a way to redirect the flow of water toward that area through adjacent pipes.

The fact that the burst pipe lies directly beneath the road has caused most of the road-filling beneath the tar to wash away and poses a challenge to repair work being done. Municipal officials are discussing the possibility of diverting the piping so that it no longer runs beneath the road, but it is unlikely that there is sufficient funds in the budget to implement this plan.

Cllr Harry Heyns fears that the town will face many more burst pipes when the drought ends and water supply returns to normal.

Bhekuzulu community leader, Mkhanyiseli Mhlongo, says his community is struggling without water.

“We tried to ensure that there is a water tank in each section but I don’t feel that this is enough for Bhekuzulu. If we had enough water tanks and trucks to make sure the tanks are full, at least people will have access to water closer to their homes,” he said.

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