City of uMhlathuze works to improve eSikhaleni water scheme
Major shutdown as city resolves poor water supply issue
AS part of its intervention to resolve the ongoing water woes in eSikhaleni and surrounding areas, the City of uMhlathuze will implement a major water supply shutdown this week to allow for necessary upgrades.
The shutdown will commence tomorrow (Wednesday, 29 July) at 6am, extending to Thursday, 30 July at 6pm. The affected areas will include households within eSikhaleni Township, KwaDube, Port Durnford, KwaDlangezwa, Mkhwanazi North, Vulindlela, Felixton, and Mangezi Reserve.
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According to the city, water supply will be interrupted to allow technicians to work on the pipes. Work will include drainage of the water from the old pipe, joining of the new pipe, necessary technical tests, as well as pumping of water to three 20-mega-litre reservoirs situated at eSikhaleni cemeteries.
These will also join the main 600mm rubber pipe from Cubhu Lake.
Last week, the city began replacing an old steel pipe that was corroded, resulting in numerous pipe bursts which have affected water supply to eSikhaleni cluster residents.
A statement issued by the City of uMhlathuze read, ‘This pipe was laid under a swamp that caused the corrosion. The replacement with a new HDPE (high-density polyethylene) pipe will ensure constant and reliable supply to a number of reservoirs feeding to eSikhaleni cluster residents.
‘During the shutdown, the team will also connect two diesel power generators as a backup system to ensure water is pumped, even during power outages.
‘The pipe replacements, as well as the purchase of the two generators, are urgent interventions aimed at curbing water supply challenges in the area.’
Residents have been assured water tankers will be dispatched to fill static tanks and supply water to communities during this time.
According to the city’s communications manager, Mdu Ncalane updates will be constantly shared on the city’s various social media pages. The public can also get updates – and report any illegal water connections – via the city’s 24-hour toll-free line: 0800 222827.
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