Pipeline problems leave southern residents dry
A large number of residents along the South Coast have been affected by the water shortage. In some areas, the water pressure is low while other areas don't have water.
AS TAPS remain dry for days in some South Coast areas, uMngeni-uThukela Water has said it is working around the clock to resolve the challenge.
Also read: Lotus Park water shortage enters third week
The shortages started because of low water volumes supplied by the South Coast Augmentation (SCA) system to the Amanzimtoti Water Works. The interruption has affected several reservoirs that supply water to areas on the South Coast, including to some parts of the Ugu District which is also supplied by the Amanzimtoti Water Works. In some areas, the reservoir levels are low, leading to a loss of pressure, while in others, taps are running dry.
In a statement, uMngeni-uThukela Water said its technical team, as well as that from the eThekwini Municipality, are currently working on identifying the cause of the bulk water-supply interruption to undertake the necessary repairs.
In February, there was another interruption on the same line after maintenance work was done on the 800mm SCA pumping trunk main for air-valve and scour-valve replacements in the vicinity of the uMbogintwini River.
Ward 97 councillor André Beetge said the capacity challenges started on March 15, and two days later, the Woodlands Reservoirs 3 and 4 levels were found to be exceptionally low. He said this was possibly as a result of the municipal strike.
“As a result, outlets on both were closed to secure additional capacity. Outlets were again opened on March 18, and supply to the south started in the late afternoon,” he said.
Areas that have been affected by the low water volumes include:
Athlone Park, Ezimbokodweni, Amanzimtoti CBD, Almond, Kingsburgh, Doonside, Illovo Beach, Panorama Park, Umgababa, Mgobhozini, Mfume, KwaSoni, Mashiwase, Nkwali, Lovu, Bhekulwandle, KwaMakhutha, Mkhazini, KwaFakazi, KwaMgendwa, Mahlathini, Ohlongeni, eKuphileni, Adams Mission, Umnini, Magabheni, Ehlanzeni, Thoyane, Umkomaas, Craigieburn, Amahlongwa, Amalundi, Crowder Farm, Malabar Hills, Isipingo Rail, Reunion, Isipingo Beach, Isipingo Hills, Orient Hills, Prospecton Industrial, Lotus Park, and Malukazi.
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