POLOKWANE – Lepelle Northern Water (LNW) has confirmed that the 48-hour shutdown at Olifantspoort Pump Station 1 was successfully completed this morning, with full water supply to Polokwane expected by 22:00 tonight and not 18:00 as previously stated.

LNW’s spokesperson Joe Makhafola said the shutdown, which began on Wednesday, involved replacing old corroded pipes, installing new pipes, and fitting a high-efficiency pump.

“Quality assurance checks, including x-ray testing of welding and fittings, were carried out with no defects found. Engineers, contractors and project managers confirmed the work was completed as planned,” his statement read.

Makhafola added that the pumps were restarted at 06:00 today and pipeline filling is currently underway.

“According to the utility’s schedule, portions of Lebowakgomo will receive water by 12:00, the broader City of Polokwane by 17:00, with full restoration expected by 22:00. In the meantime, the Ebenezer Plant remains in production to mitigate shortages during the restoration process,” he said.

“We thank residents and stakeholders for their patience, adding that the project forms part of its infrastructure renewal programme to secure a sustainable water supply for the future.”