This week, the municipality confirmed it is working “diligently” to implement a permanent solution and prevent ongoing disruptions that have become all too familiar for households and businesses.

The latest bout of water supply issues began when Pump 3 at the Ventersdorp Road Main Water Pump Station suffered an electrical fault on Wednesday (11/6). This technical fault forced the station to operate with only two functional pumps, which proved insufficient to meet the demands of the Eesterandjies Reservoirs and the Extension Areas of Ikageng.

A similar incident occurred on Monday evening, when electrical issues again disrupted operations at the same station. Although Pump 3 was temporarily restored to service the following day – on Tuesday – the malfunction recurred just hours later, once again impacting water supply to several key areas, said JB Marks Municipality spokesperson Jeanette Tshite.

She acknowledged the recurring issue and emphasised that the municipality’s electricity section has been alerted to urgent and ongoing repairs. “The municipality is working around the clock to find a permanent solution to the issue.”

The breakdown in pumping capacity has had a ripple effect across multiple suburbs. Residents of Van der Hoffpark, Grimbeekpark, Tuscany Ridge, Bailliepark, Mooivallei, and Vyfhoek experienced water disruptions on Wednesday.

These disruptions were further exacerbated by a significant water leak on the 450mm main supply line that feeds the Vyfhoek Reservoir. Emergency repairs were carried out by a contractor on the same day.

The municipality recently conducted a 34-hour planned water shutdown to connect a new 450 mm OPVC pipeline to the pump station and reservoir, as well as to replace a deteriorating 40 mm asbestos pipe. While the shutdown was deemed necessary for long-term improvements, it led to widespread discontent among residents already fatigued by repeated service interruptions.

OFM News previously reported on various planned pump maintenance projects across the JB Marks jurisdiction. However, these projects have done little to ease growing tensions in the community.

OFM News/Kekeletso Mosebetsi cg