The pump that uThukela made a big song-and-dance about installing on Tuesday is too small to halt water-shedding. The original, bigger pump that was in Newcastle for repairs is still there and is only expected back on Friday, with a tentative Saturday or Monday install date.

High hopes for new pump?

In a notice from uThukela, they had the following initially to say about the new pump:

“This notice serves to provide an update to the communities of St Chad’s and Ladysmith that the pump is currently being installed by the service provider. Once it has been installed, the people of St Chad’s will regain access to water supply.”

On Sunday (March 8), uThukela District Municipality Mayor Inkosi NB Shabalala assured residents that the pump would be fixed by Tuesday (March 10).

Where to now?

While the smaller pump has improved water delivery, it is sadly not enough to end water-shedding and those experiencing water-shedding will have to wait until the weekend at the earliest for it to end.

Massive leak

Added to uThukela’s woes are several water leaks cutting down water supply.

The massive leak in Farquhar Road that has seen millions of kilolitres lost daily for months is still being repaired.

Today (March 11), workers will cut their way through thick concrete in a bid to reach the leak in the massive steel pipe.

This leaking pipe also came into focus during Monday’s water crisis meeting that addressed financial and water challenges facing uThukela District Municipality. The meeting was attended by National Minister of Co-operative Governance & Traditional Affairs (CoGTA) Velenkosini Hlabisa, together with a provincial government delegation, the Business Chamber, and members of civil society.

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