SEDIBENG.- Many residents of Emfuleni Local Municipality (ELM) are confused about the 16-day water shutdown, currently in progress, by the bulk water supplier, Rand Water.

The shutdown is taking place to allow Rand Water to do maintenance work on its pipelines.

While the residents had prepared themselves for the shutdown, the ELM issued a statement yesterday stating that the planned water shutdown was suspended.

ELM said yesterday afternoon that a meeting was held with accounting officers and their representatives, the National Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (CoGTA), Rand Water, Metsimaholo Local Municipality, Municipal Infrastructure Support Agency, Department of Water and Sanitation, South African Local Government Association (SALGA) and Gauteng CoGTA to give feedback on progress from consultation.

During the meeting it became evident that Rand Water reported that preliminary work was done and tests were conducted with the aim of minimising disruptions. Following the conclusion of the preliminary work, the three meters of ELM will not currently be impacted and supply of water for ELM will continue.

The initial impact will, however, remain in place for Metsimaholo Local Municipality and Ngwathe Local Municipality.

Immediately after the publication of this confusing statement, Rand Water disputed the postponement of the shutdown, issuing communication that said the maintenance work is proceeding as initially planned.

“This critical maintenance forms part of Rand Water’s efforts to upgrade infrastructure, increase capacity, and improve plant availability, ensuring a more reliable water supply in the long term.”

In the statement, Rand Water urged residents and stakeholders to rely on Rand Water’s official communication channels for accurate and timely updates.

“Spreading misinformation risks creating confusion and undermining efforts to manage the supply effectively. We appreciate the cooperation and understanding of the public as we work to strengthen and safeguard water infrastructure for the benefit of all affected communities.”

Rand Water will provide regular updates through its official communication platforms and social media channels to keep all customers informed on progress.