It’s debunked claims made by Emfuleni Municipality on its social media pages that the water shutdown has been suspended. The shutdown will last from Friday (30/5) to Saturday, 14 June.

The shutdown is planned to allow Rand Water to conduct evaluations and cleaning operations of the Sasolburg Reservoir, and residents living in Bedworthpark, Boipatong, Bonanne, Bophelong, Bophelong Extensions, Sharpeville, Tshepiso, and Vanderbijlpark will be affected by the shutdown.

“We confirm that the planned maintenance work is proceeding as scheduled,” said Rand Water spokesperson Makenosi Maroo. “This critical maintenance forms part of Rand Water’s efforts to upgrade infrastructure, increase capacity, and improve plant availability.”

Residents and stakeholders are encouraged to rely solely on Rand Water’s official communication channels for accurate and timely updates. The utility warns that misinformation could cause unnecessary confusion and disrupt efforts to manage the water 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, she said. 

Metsimaholo Municipality will also embark on the planned 16-day water shutdown, and the areas that would be affected include Sasolburg, Zamdela, Vaalpark, and surrounding areas.

During the proposed 16-day shutdown, the reduced pressure of the A15 pipeline will result in water supply disruptions that will affect reservoir meters supplying the impacted areas.

The planned shutdown is due to maintenance projects that have been postponed for a long time because of their impact, but the municipality says it can no longer be postponed, as it is required to comply with regulatory safety standards.

“The municipality is working closely with Rand Water to mitigate the effects of the shutdown and will provide alternative water supply measures to ensure the continued access to water where possible,” said Metsimaholo spokesperson Gino Alberts.

“Detailed schedules and points of water tankers will be communicated on the official platforms, people should be on the lookout for them.”

Emfuleni issued a tender for extra water tankers for water points for residents. Unfortunately, there will be a water supply first for clinics, hospitals, and schools, and thereafter, for residents.

All affected residents in these areas are urged to make much-needed plans to provide water for themselves, said Emfuleni FF Plus spokesperson Gerda Senekal.

OFM News/Zenande Mpame cg