Rand Water has successfully completed critical maintenance work on key water supply infrastructure, which began on 29 May until 18 July 2025. The planned maintenance was aimed at enhancing system capacity, improving plant availability and reliability, institute statutory dam safety inspections and boosting overall operational efficiency. The work was strategically scheduled during the low consumption months to minimise service disruptions and manage the potential negative impact on water supply.
To reduce interruptions and allow time for the system recovery, the maintenance programme was divided into three phases, all of which were completed.
Phase 1: Resumed on the 29 May 2025, this maintenance work entailed a major milestone in which Rand Water successfully connected the newly laid B16 Pipeline, which will supply additional water from the newly built Station 5A Water Treatment Plant within the Zuikerbosch Water Purification Plant. In addition to this work, Rand Water Russel Road Meter installation, Sasolburg Reservoir cleaning and statutory inspection were completed.
Phase 2: Commenced on 30 June 2025, required the repair of a leak on the B7 Pipeline at Zuikerbosch Water Purification Plant and replacement of valves at the Zwartkopjes Pumping Station.
Phase 3: The final phase began on 15 July and was completed on 18 July 2025. This phase focused on leak repairs on the O2 Pipeline. The repairs were successfully completed, and the pipeline was fully recharged. The Palmiet Pumping Station resumed pumping into the O2 pipeline at 01:00. In addition, the cleaning and statutory inspection of the Hartebeeshoek Reservoir commenced on 3 July 2025 and was successfully completed at 05:00 on 18 July 2025.
While the maintenance work has been completed ahead of schedule, it is important to note that the Municipal distribution network requires time to fully recover and for the water supply to return to normal. This is due to the need to rebuild system capacity and pressure – particularly in high-lying areas. These (high-lying areas) are the last to receive water as it must travel uphill and require more time to restore adequate pressure. The low-lying areas typically recover more quickly.
Rand Water will continue to closely monitor the recovery process and implement all necessary measures to stabilise water supply.
In conclusion, Rand Water extends its sincere thanks to its municipal customers, residents, and all key stakeholders for their understanding and patience throughout the maintenance period.
