POLOKWANE – Lepelle Northern Water (LNW) says the planned 48-hour shutdown of both the Olifantspoort and Ebenezer water schemes has been completed far earlier than expected, wrapping up in just 33 hours.

The shutdown, which formed part of the final major intervention in LNW’s 2025 programme, was originally scheduled to continue until late tonight.

According to LNW’s spokesperson Joe Makhafola, water supply has already been restored to several areas across Polokwane, with most remaining areas expected to start receiving water by 23:00 this evening.

“The shutdown allowed for the installation of new high-efficiency pumps at the Olifantspoort Scheme, which are now fully operational and performing within required standards. The upgraded units are expected to boost reliability, improve energy efficiency and increase productivity, key improvements for strengthening water security across the Capricorn District Municipality and the City of Polokwane,” his statement reads.

Makhafola notes that reaching this milestone required strong coordination between all role-players, including the Department of Water and Sanitation and the Capricorn District and Polokwane municipalities.

He further praises the collaborative effort, describing the early completion as a reflection of the technical expertise of its engineers, contractors and project teams.

“With this shutdown concluded, LNW will shift focus back to the Ebenezer Scheme, where outstanding structural and building work still needs to be completed. These final phases will require short, minor shutdowns expected to take place in February and March 2026,” he adds.

Makhafola says they remain committed to proactive maintenance and continuous infrastructure upgrades aimed at reducing failures and improving recovery time from potential disruptions.

“Work at both schemes forms part of long-term efforts to stabilise water supply across key regions of Limpopo,” he says.