Water utility Rand Water is entering the final phase of its extensive proactive maintenance project, which is expected to be completed on July 29.

The group reported, on the afternoon of July 16, that its 50-hour planned maintenance at the Palmiet Booster Station, which started on July 15, had been progressing well and was on schedule to be completed on time as per the projection.

Technically, work is complete on the Zuikerbosch water treatment plant’s valves replacement to increase plant availability, reliability and efficiency; however, in an update on X on Wednesday morning, Rand Water said that two minor leaks were observed during charging of B10.

The leaks are being repaired, with pumping increased to 83%, from the 68% during the maintenance period, with full pumping to follow.

This phase of the project impacted the cities of Ekurhuleni, Johannesburg and Tshwane, as well as the Madibeng local municipality in the North West and industries supplied by the Palmiet Booster Station.

The Klipriviersberg, Germiston, Meyershill, Airfield, Klipfontein, Brakfontein and Haartbeeshoek reservoirs, which are supplied by the Palmiet System were also impacted.

“Some of these reservoirs are experiencing critical low levels which might lead to low to no pressure in some areas, especially those in high-lying sections,” Rand Water said in a statement.

The water infrastructure system is designed in such a way that once the maintenance is completed, the systems need time to recover. In addition, high-lying areas may experience low to no pressure for longer than low-lying ones, as it takes longer for the pressure to stabilise.

According to the statement, the affected municipalities have reported that they have activated alternative water supply arrangements for the affected areas.

These customers will be affected again on July 29 when the Palmiet System’s pumping will be reduced to 76% for 40 hours as Rand Water embarks on the further replacement of defective valves at the Zuikerbosch water treatment works.

On July 19, maintenance work and the installation of new meters will impact the Mapleton System, thereby affecting areas supplied by the Ergo meter for 39 hours, the Carnival City meter for 19 hours and three City of Tshwane meters for 12 hours.

On July 26, Mapleton will not be pumping for 77 hours as Rand Water undertakes an augmentation and flexibility project.

Rand Water reiterated the benefits of the proactive infrastructure maintenance projects to preserve the quality and integrity of its infrastructure and extend the lifespan of its assets.

“This ensures long-term water security and sustained water provision. There may be short-term inconveniences, but the long-term benefits are unparalleled,” the water utility said.