CoE installs backup generators to curb water supply interruptions

Tsakani – Ekurhuleni MMC for Water, Sanitation and Energy Thembi Msane commissioned backup generators at 21 water supply infrastructure sites such as reservoirs and pump stations on February 27.

Some of the sites where the generators are installed are Tsakani, Sunward Park and Germiston. In recent years, Tsakani has been plagued with water interruptions, which in some cases, the metro claimed were due to low levels of water in reservoirs.

As a result, frustrated residents have taken to the streets to demand intervention from the metro. One of the grievances of the residents was that they were not receiving adequate communication about what was causing the water shortages and how they would be resolved.

The installed generators will prevent water supply interruptions during load-shedding and power outages.
The generators have a fuel tank capacity to run for 11 hours.

This will bring much-needed relief to many residents, particularly Tsakani residents who experienced constant, pro-longed water supply interruptions during load-shedding due to the topographically high-lying area. High-lying areas are supplied through water towers that feed from electricity-operated pump stations.

“Water supply interruption will now be a thing of the past,” said Msane, adding that the backup generators will be complemented by dedicated maintenance teams that will monitor the water towers and pump stations 24 hours a day.

Tshepang Mnisi of Tsakani shared his gratitude for the work done by the city.

“Uninterrupted water supply restores our dignity and saves us from ill health. We are extremely happy that the city has heard our pleas,” Mnisi said.

ALSO READ: When poverty strikes, people turn to gardening

ALSO READ: Collect your title deed for the full benefits of property ownership