POLOKWANE -Residents have been dealt another blow as additional water supply interruptions worsen the crisis.

The Polokwane Municipality says communication from Lepelle Northern Water (LNW) reports an eight-hour shutdown of the Olifantspoort Plant due to a pump and non-return valve failure.

“The shutdown, which commenced at 10:00, is expected to last approximately eight hours to allow for critical repairs, including the replacement of components and scouring of the line,” says municipal spokesperson Thipa Selala.

This shutdown will significantly impact the municipality’s already strained water supply, exacerbated by persistently low reservoir levels and recent power outages over the weekend and Monday.

Current Water Levels and Impact

• Ext 34 (Ivydale) – 45% (Moderate levels; may sustain supply for a limited period if demand remains controlled)
• Ivydale Pump Station – 14% (Critically low; significantly reduced pumping capacity affecting supply reliability)
• Potgieter, 50ML Krugersburg, 30ML D, and Seshego – 0% (Empty; no available water for distribution)
• 30ML F – 10% (Extremely low; minimal supply available)
• Olifants – Previously pumping 77 l/s (Reduced inflow; situation expected to worsen due to shutdown)
• Ebenezer – 132 l/s (Stable, but insufficient to compensate for Olifantspoort’s shortfall)
• Seshego New Plant – 5.40 l/s (Critically low supply; unable to meet demand)
• SRN – 2.4ML (Low reserves; high-demand areas will be affected)
• Dalmada Final – 12.4ML (Limited supply; conservation necessary)
• Penina Park – 40 l/s (Lower than normal; intermittent supply expected)
• Doornkraal – 45 l/s (Limited supply; water pressure may be affected)

Selala says given the critical situation, residents are strongly urged to use water sparingly to prevent a prolonged shortage.

“The municipality will deploy water tankers to affected areas to provide temporary relief,” he concludes.