The latest incident has once again highlighted the vulnerability of critical water infrastructure in the metro. Repeated acts of vandalism and suspected tampering continue to disrupt essential services. 

On Sunday (7/6), the struggling Mangaung Metro called on residents to report acts of vandalism, theft, unauthorised tampering, or any suspicious activity around water bulk facilities in their communities. 

Residents of Phomolong, Lourierpark, Phase 2 and Brandpark were specifically urged to help safeguard critical infrastructure following disruptions to the water supply in their areas.

Other parts of Mangaung also experienced water shortages due to suspected tampering and vandalism affecting essential water infrastructure.

Providing an update on Wednesday, acting Metro spokesperson Nicolette Maysiels said interventions, including the introduction of additional security measures, would be implemented to reduce the risk of future incidents at the Signal Hill Reservoir.

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“The water supply was isolated, and the affected valve was successfully shut off to prevent further water losses. Emergency operational measures were implemented to stabilize the water supply system,” said Maysiels.

According to the metro, water supply operations have since been restored to normal, and efforts are underway to ensure the system fully recovers.

Maysiels said the Signal Hill Reservoir is steadily recharging and recovering, while the damaged valve will remain isolated until permanent repairs are completed.

Infrastructure protection measures

“A secure and protected valve chamber will be constructed as part of the repair and infrastructure protection programme.”

The metro believes the new infrastructure protection measures will help prevent further damage to the water network and improve the reliability of water supply services.

Maysiels added bulk water services teams will continue to monitor reservoir levels and network performance closely to ensure ongoing stability.

“Bulk water services will continue to closely monitor reservoir levels and network performance to ensure ongoing stability and reliability of the water supply system. The system is currently stable and recovering,” she said.

The latest incident comes amid ongoing concerns about the impact of vandalism and theft on service delivery in Mangaung, where aging infrastructure and repeated criminal activity have contributed to frequent disruptions in water supply across several communities.

OFM News/Kekeletso Mosebetsi mvh sm

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