Loadshedding remains a risk to Tshwane water supply
Only a few high-lying areas are remaining, particularly in Soshanguve Block L and Mooikloof, says the MMC.
Soshanguve Block L and Mooikloof are currently being prioritised by the Tshwane metro in hopes that water will be restored to these areas by the end of today.
The metro has been working closely with Rand Water to restore water to all areas.
“Water supply has been restored to most of the affected areas with only a few high-lying areas remaining, particularly in Soshanguve Block L and Mooikloof,” said utilities MMC Daryl Johnston.
Soshanguve residents took to the streets in protest yesterday morning after they had been without power and water.
Residents barricaded Ruth First Road and Aubrey Matlakala Street, making it difficult for motorists to get in and out of the community.
Johnston addressed the challenges faced by the metro due to the protest as teams were prevented from working in the area.
“I do understand residents’ frustration, but I must ask communities to allow our teams to work safely without intimidation and threats,” he said.
“Water levels at the reservoir are recovering well. We look to be in a good position to restore the supply today; however, if our teams cannot get to Soshanguve Block L, we cannot restore the water supply.”
While the metro is working on restoring the water supply, the return of stage 5 and 6 load-shedding is proving to be a problem.
“Higher levels of load-shedding put serious pressure on the water supply network affecting both the Tshwane network and Rand Water’s bulk supply systems,” said Johnston.
“If Rand Water cannot pump the water to Gauteng municipalities, we cannot supply it to residents.
“To speak plainly, this higher level of load-shedding can prevent us from restoring water to all areas of Tshwane.”
Another problem is that Tshwane residents used more water last week than the previous week despite various calls to save water.
“This higher usage is also straining our ability to stretch the supply we receive from Rand Water to residents. I must yet again appeal to residents to save water.
“We must all take responsibility and use water sparingly. If we fail to do this, our current water problems will likely continue despite all of the metro’s efforts,” he said.
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