POLOKWANE – Lepelle Northern Water (LNW) has confirmed progress on the ongoing shutdown at the Olifantspoort Scheme, with water expected to start flowing back to Polokwane by this evening (October 3).

The utility says work at Pump Station 1 (PS1) was completed on schedule and that Lebowakgomo residents have already started receiving water since Thursday afternoon.

LNW spokesperson Joe Makhafola, however, said progress was delayed due to unforeseen technical challenges at Pump Station 2 (PS2) and Pump Station 3 (PS3).

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“Faulty valves and welding complications slowed work, while PS3 required significant on-site pipe adjustments, which were only finalised this morning at 07:00. Despite the setbacks, pumps at PS2 have now been successfully recommissioned, and PS3 is expected to be fully operational later today, restoring supply to Polokwane,” he explained.

LNW also confirmed that the transformer fault reported earlier this week at PS1 has been fully repaired.

“These works form part of efforts to accelerate upgrades ahead of the December festive season to ensure more reliable supply and reduce the likelihood of future shutdowns,” the entity said.