ETHEKWINI NEWSFLASH
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
7 JULY 2022

Umgeni Water has advised eThekwini Municipality of an interruption of water supply in all areas that are supplied by the Durban Heights Water Treatment Plant, which is operated and managed by the water utility.

The interruption is due to a leak on Aqueduct 3, which is a high-pressure pipe that conveys large volumes of water for treatment at the plant. To ensure that there is enough water and to prevent further water loss, Umgeni Water has taken a decision to shut down Aqueduct 3 on an emergency basis from Friday, 8 July 2022, to undertake these critical repairs. 

As a result, there will be reduced water supply from reservoirs that are fed by the Durban Heights Water Treatment Works.  

It is estimated that repairs will take five days. The pipe is expected to receive water again from Tuesday 12 July 2022.
 
The following areas will experience poor supply of water during this process: Umlazi, Nsimbini, Folweni, Northdene, Firwood, Shallcross, Washington heights, Intake; Birch, Klaarwater and Chatsworth.

Residents are advised that this process will also affect the water rationing times in the current schedule. It could also result in lower-than-normal pressure for areas in the high zones. Residents in these regions are advised to visit social media platforms to view affected areas and revised times on water rationing schedule.

Water tankers will be dispatched to assist with water supply to affected areas. 

The Municipality apologises for inconvenience caused and appeals to the public to use water sparingly to ensure that all customers have access to some water. 

ENDS

This is a joint statement issued by eThekwini Municipality and Umgeni Water. For media enquiries contact Municipality’s Spokesperson Msawakhe Mayisela on 060 966 4220 and Umgeni Water: on 033 3411111/033 3411051