The Tshwane metro is managing the water levels at its Lynnwood Reservoir as it can only hold about 50% at the moment.
The decision to manage the reservoir tightly was made after the facility encountered a recurring leak that raised the residents’ concerns.
The residents are worried about the water supply in the area.
The leak was first discovered in November last year and reported to Ward Councillor Siobhan Muller.
According to Muller at the time of the leak, residents could hear water gushing from the reservoir. The leak was not visible hidden behind shrubs and trees. It was only detected later.
Tshwane spokesperson Lindela Mashigo confirmed that an assessment revealed the most appropriate repair would be relining.
Mashigo noted that the Lynnwood Reservoir had not yet made it to the metro’s three-year capital plan due to prioritisation criterion.
“The reservoir is being filled to below the leak and is able to adequately supply all the areas it was meant for,” Mashigo said.
However, he warned that it needs urgent repair work since only 50% of its water capacity is currently available.
Mashigo said that the reservoir was built in 1968 and requires an upgrade and maintenance.
“Initial assessments suggest a possible failure of floor-to-wall joint bandages inside the reservoir, but a detailed structural assessment is needed to determine the exact cause and extent of the leak.”
The metro has taken measures to keep the water levels below the leak, including setting the valve to open and close before the water reaches that level.
Mashigo confirmed that these measures were effective.
“The timeline for completing the repairs will only be known once a contractor is appointed,” Mashigo said.
He said in the meantime, the metro needs to do repair and maintenance work inside the reservoir to prevent further leaks from occurring.
Mashigo said that the reservoir is being operated below the leak point, and no visible water leakage has been observed.
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