Image Source: WaterCan
Johannesburg – Rand Water has now completed its maintenance work on the Eikenhof system as a much-needed relief for Johannesburg residents. This comes after four days of widespread water cuts that left many unable to cook, shower, or maintain basic hygiene, with soaring temperatures intensifying the challenges.
Johannesburg Water confirmed on Monday that pumping has resumed at the station, and the system will progressively recover. However, residents should expect a timely return of water supply. The utility explained that the system will gradually build capacity, with low-lying areas recovering first, followed by high-lying areas.
“This recovery is also impacted by demand, so we need to observe water consumption. Pumping to Johannesburg Water-affected towers will only take place once the respective reservoirs have recovered to sufficient levels and where operational intervention will be required, especially the removal of airlocks that prevent interruption in flow,” it explained.
Alternative water supplies will remain available for the next few days, as needed, to support affected areas. The pace will inform these measures of recovery.
Last week, the utility announced planned weekend infrastructure maintenance at the Eikenhof and Zwartkoppies pump stations in Gauteng. The maintenance work at the Eikenhof system disrupted water supply to several areas, including Soweto, Randburg/Roodepoort, Commando system (Brixton, Crosby, and Hursthill), Lenasia, and parts of Johannesburg central. Impacted reservoirs include Eagles Nest, Crown Gardens, Aeroton, and Alan Manor.
The project forms part of long-term efforts to enhance water system availability, reliability, and efficiency, ensuring improved service for customers in the future.
