Water supply interruptions expected in uMgungundlovu & parts of eThekwini due to pipeline repairs

The uMngeni-uThukela Water has confirmed a planned maintenance shutdown of the 53 pipeline to facilitate crucial repairs.

The maintenance work will take place from January 26 to February 22, aiming to enhance the bulk potable water supply to the Umlaas Road Reservoirs.

Reason for the Shutdown

The scheduled shutdown is essential to repair a specific section of the pipeline, which is critical to the water infrastructure system. In a statement, uMngeni-uThukela Water emphasized the importance of this maintenance, explaining that the repairs would improve water delivery efficiency to the Umlaas Road Reservoirs and surrounding areas.

During this period, communities in the uMgungundlovu District and parts of the outer west of the eThekwini Municipality that rely on the Umlaas Road Reservoirs will experience reduced water volumes.

Areas Affected

The areas likely to be impacted by the maintenance work include:

• Eston
• Mid-Illovo
• Mkhambathini
• Umbumbulu Reservoir
• Outer west regions of eThekwini Municipality

Mitigation Measures

To alleviate the impact of the shutdown, uMngeni-uThukela Water has announced plans to increase production at its Midmar Water Works. This measure is intended to supplement water supply to the affected regions.

Despite these efforts, the water authority has urged residents to use water sparingly during this time to ensure that available resources are managed efficiently.

“We understand the inconvenience caused by this maintenance shutdown and are working diligently to minimize disruptions. However, we call on the community to assist by conserving water during this period,” said uMngeni-uThukela Water.

Apologies and Urgent Repairs in KwaDukuza

In addition to the planned shutdown, uMngeni-uThukela Water reported ongoing issues at the Lower Thukela Waterworks, which is still not fully operational due to multiple leaks discovered in the pipeline.

The leaks affect two critical sections:

1. The pipeline between the Lower Thukela Waterworks and the Command Reservoir.
2. The gravity-fed pipeline originating from the Command Reservoir.

Due to these leaks, the Command Reservoir is operating below its minimum safe level, prompting authorities to isolate its outlet to allow storage levels to recover.

As a result, the water supply to KwaDukuza and surrounding areas has been temporarily interrupted. Repairs to the leaks were scheduled for completion on Saturday, January 25.

Areas Affected in KwaDukuza

The following areas are experiencing water supply interruptions due to the Command Reservoir’s isolation:

• Zinkwazi
• San Souci
• Darnall
• Lindelani
• Nonoti
• Blythedale
• Saunders Reservoir
• Glenhills
• Warrenton
• Stanger Manor
• High Ridge
• Shakaville
• Townview
• Mbozamo
• Honolulu Reservoir
• Groutville
• Ntshawini
• Melville

Once the storage levels in the Command Reservoir return to safe operating levels, water supply to these areas will be reinstated.

Appeal to Residents

uMngeni-uThukela Water reiterated its call for patience and cooperation during these disruptions. “We sincerely apologize for the inconvenience caused and assure residents that we are working tirelessly to complete the repairs and resume normal operations as quickly as possible.”

The authority also reminded the public to refrain from excessive water use and emphasized the importance of water conservation during such critical periods.

Commitment to Service Delivery

The planned maintenance shutdown and urgent repairs highlight the challenges of maintaining critical water infrastructure. Despite these obstacles, uMngeni-uThukela Water remains committed to ensuring a reliable water supply for all communities under its care.

As the work progresses, residents are encouraged to stay informed through official updates and to continue practicing responsible water usage to help mitigate the effects of these interruptions.

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