Key Takeaways:
- The City of Cape Town’s Water and Sanitation Directorate will be conducting planned maintenance work on its water supply infrastructure, resulting in disruptions to various parts of the city.
- The affected areas include Knole Park, Schaapkraal, Strandfontein, and parts of Lotus River, among others.
- Residents can expect low water pressure to no water in some areas, and water tankers will be made available in certain areas.
- The maintenance work is expected to take place on December 20-22 and December 21, with completion times varying depending on the location.
- Residents are advised to store enough water in clean, sealed containers and keep taps closed to prevent water loss and damage.
Introduction to the Water Supply Disruptions
The City of Cape Town’s Water and Sanitation Directorate has announced that various parts of the city will experience water supply disruptions due to planned maintenance work on its water supply infrastructure. The work, which includes pipe and valve installations, repairs, and replacements, is scheduled to take place on December 20-22 and December 21. The affected areas include Knole Park, Schaapkraal, Strandfontein, Strandfontein Pavilion, part of Lotus River, Phumlani, Eagle Park, Pelican Park, Peacock Close, Pelican Heights, and the Deep South.
Affected Areas and Expected Disruptions
The City has provided a detailed breakdown of the expected disruptions in each area. Residents in Knole Park and Schaapkraal can expect low water pressure to no water, while those in Strandfontein and Strandfontein Pavilion can expect low water pressure. Pelican Heights residents may experience low water pressure to no water, and part of Lotus River, Phumlani, Eagle Park, Pelican Park, and Peacock Close will experience low water pressure. The Deep South area will experience lower pressure due to the rerouting of water supply to other areas. In addition, the University Estate, part of Woodstock, Groote Schuur Hospital, and surrounds will experience no water during the maintenance period, with water tankers made available to residents.
Maintenance Work and Repair Details
The Water and Sanitation Directorate will temporarily shut off the 1 500mm to 1 220mm diameter bulk water pipeline in Ottery Road, Philippi, to enable the bulk water maintenance team to do emergency repairs to the leaking scour valve on the 1 220mm diameter pipeline. The team will also reinstate and uncap the 360mm diameter water main and install a control valve in the vicinity of Hospital Bend to Philip Kgosana Drive in Observatory. The City has advised that alternate water supply will be rerouted to the affected areas, albeit at lower pressures.
Preparation and Safety Measures
Residents are advised to take necessary precautions to prepare for the water supply disruptions. The City recommends storing enough water in clean, sealed containers to last during the disruption period and keeping taps closed to prevent water loss and damage. Additionally, residents are warned that the water may be discoloured or milky in appearance due to trapped air in the pipes after the water supply is restored. However, the water will become clear in colour again if left to stand. The City also reminds residents that all sites where water and sanitation repairs and upgrades are conducted are deemed to be construction sites and are off-limits to members of the public.
Conclusion and Additional Information
The City of Cape Town’s Water and Sanitation Directorate has carefully planned the maintenance work to minimize disruptions to the water supply. However, residents are advised to be prepared for potential delays or changes in the schedule. The City will provide updates and information to residents through various channels, including social media and news outlets. Residents can also stay informed by joining the City’s WhatsApp channel for updates on water supply disruptions and other important announcements. By being prepared and taking necessary precautions, residents can minimize the impact of the water supply disruptions and ensure a safe and convenient experience during the maintenance period.