Temporary shutdown causes problems in and around Bronkhorstspruit
The water cleared up considerably by the time of Streeknews’ deadline on Tuesday.
For about two weeks, residents of Bronkhorstspruit and surrounding communities had to buy clean water for consumption and household chores because the water in their taps was muddy.
The murky brown liquid was due to a temporary shutdown of the town’s water treatment plant. Heavy rain, which caused the deterioration of the raw water quality, necessitated this shutdown.
Businesses dependent on large amounts of water felt the brunt of the problem. A local laundromat’s management said their clients were upset because they could not get their washing done.
Some areas also experienced low pressure to no water.
Jabulane Mabona, the head of Region 7, said roaming water tankers were dispatched to all the affected areas.
“The City of Tshwane apologises for the inconvenience that may have been encountered as a result of this temporary shutdown.”
He said the situation was monitored and once the quality of the raw water improved, the treatment plant was put back into operation.
The water cleared up considerably by the time of Streeknews’ deadline on Tuesday.
Mabona urged residents to continue making water conservation measures part of their lifestyle, such as irrigating gardens with hosepipes or sprinkler systems between 06:00 and 18:00, not washing vehicles with hosepipes, and not filling up swimming pools and residents.
He also asked residents to install a low-flow shower head and tap aerators where possible.
Residents are urged to continue using grey water to water gardens and flush toilets. Where possible, water-saving devices should be installed.
“Residents are further urged to report water leaks, burst pipes and all incidents where water is wasted on the following numbers,” said Mabona.
The water pumps are restored and the water has been cleaner than before. Residents are still advised to buy drinking water rather than using the water coming out of the taps.
They can use the following numbers to report water-related incidents:
- No water supply, burst water pipes, leaking meters or blocked street sewers – 012 358 9999 or 080 1111 556.
- Illegal water connections – 012 358 9060.
- Non-payment – 012 345 8514.
- Account enquiries – 012 358 9999.
