Staff Reporter.
The City of Ekurhuleni says repairs to the damaged water infrastructure at Etwatwa in Germiston, is estimated to be completed on Saturday.
This follows the vandalism of the Etwatwa Extension 19 reservoir pump station on Tuesday, leaving residents without water.
The city’s spokesman, Zweli Dlamini said the incident was discovered by municipal workers on Wednesday morning.
Dlamini said, technicians are on site conducting repairs to the damaged infrastructure and the estimation is that “repairs will be completed on Saturday, 16 September.”
The areas affected by the incident include, Emaphupheni; Mandela; Citicon; Etwatwa East; and Etwatwa extensions 19 and 36.
“The city condemns such acts of vandalism in the strongest possible terms. Many innocent ratepayers are now feeling the pinch of this senseless act of thuggery. The cables that were cut were discovered at the scene, however, the electrical panel is extremely damaged hence the delay in the repairs.”
Roving water tankers have been provided to the affected areas, and updates on any developments will be communicated through the city’s digital platforms.
The city appeals to members of the public to protect municipal infrastructure and report any suspicious activities to 0860 54 3000.
The city has also urged residents to put an end to illegal dumping and report it on 086 453 000.
Meanwhile Magalies Water has warned consumers receiving water supply from the Cullinan Supply Scheme of possible water supply interruptions due to increased water demand.
The entity said the higher-than-normal water consumption patterns have strained the supply.
“This has caused reduced abstraction rates from the Wilge Dam, through which the supply scheme is linked, and will result in water supply interruptions until the scheme subsidises.
“Due to increased water demand and the subsequent strain on the scheme, we urge consumers to use water sparingly, in order to prevent prolonged water supply interruptions. Magalies Water apologises for the inconvenience that this may cause,” said Magalies Water spokesperson David Magae.
Compiled by Lehlohonolo Lehana.