Joburg Braces for 21-Day Water Outage as Rand Water Launches Pipeline Repairs

Rand Water has officially launched its critical B16 pipeline maintenance programme. This is a massive infrastructure overhaul expected to impact water supply across Johannesburg and surrounding areas for up to 21 days. The programme, which began at 3 am on Thursday, 29 May, aims to improve long-term service delivery but will bring short-term water supply disruptions to major parts of Gauteng.

ALSO READ: 21-Day Water Outage in Johannesburg: Areas Affected and How to Prepare

What Residents Need to Know

Rand Water has confirmed that valve isolation has been completed as part of the initial stage of the operation. The project is part of an eight-phase programme running until 21 July 2025.

The utility has strongly advised residents to implement water conservation measures and put contingency plans in place. This particularly affects the cities of Ekurhuleni, Tshwane, and affected regions in the Vaal Triangle, including Metsimaholo, Ngwathe, and Emfuleni.

Phase 1: B16 Pipeline Tie-In from Zuikerbosch Station 5

The first and most immediate stage involves connecting the newly built B16 pipeline. This has necessitated the complete shutdown of pumping operations at Mapleton Station for 107 hours. This phase is set to continue until 5 pm on 2 June, significantly affecting water flow into critical urban zones.

Eight Phases of Water Maintenance: What to Expect

Rand Water’s maintenance is not a one-time fix but part of a strategic, long-term plan. This involves eight distinct phases, each targeting a different infrastructure issue:

1. Phase 1 (29 May – 2 June) – B16 pipeline connection and Mapleton pump shutdown.
2. Phase 2 (29 – 30 May) – Overhaul of the Amanzimtoti Pumping Station; no pumping for 13.5 hours.
3. Phase 3 (30 May – 15 June) – Complete supply halt to Sasolburg 1 Reservoir, affecting Metsimaholo, Ngwathe, and Emfuleni.
4. Phase 4 (3 June) – Russell Road meter installation for 22 hours, impacting Primrose and nearby areas.
5. Phase 5 (30 June – 2 July) – Zuikerbosch leak repair, reducing Eikenhof pumping to 50% for 42 hours.
6. Phase 6 – Valve replacement at Zwartkopjes station, scheduled for 50 hours.
7. Phase 7 (30 June – 21 July) – The most extended phase, cleaning Vereeniging Sedimentation Tanks; Eikenhof system will operate at 80% capacity.
8. Phase 8 – Final 50-hour session to address O2 leak repairs, reducing water supply to the Palmiet system by 67%.

Why This Maintenance Matters

According to Rand Water, the extensive programme is necessary to increase pumping capacity, improve plant availability, and boost long-term reliability across Gauteng’s water infrastructure. The utility is dealing with aging pipelines and equipment that have been a source of persistent problems and supply interruptions in recent years.

By executing this maintenance during winter months, when water consumption is at its lowest, Rand Water hopes to minimise the overall impact on households and businesses.

“The maintenance work has been strategically scheduled during the low consumption months of May to July 2025 to minimise disruptions and better manage the potential impact on water supply,” the utility stated.

How Residents Can Prepare

In response to the scheduled outages and reduced supply, residents are urged to:

• Limit water use by cutting down on non-essential activities like watering lawns and washing cars.
• Collect and store water in clean containers for essential use.
• Install water-saving devices on taps and showerheads.
• Work with local municipalities to provide access to water tankers where needed.
• Stay informed via local media, Rand Water updates, and city alerts.

A Necessary Inconvenience

While the water cuts and reduced pressure may cause short-term frustration, the Rand Water maintenance project is necessary for sustainable service delivery in Gauteng. Residents are encouraged to be proactive and patient, understanding that these upgrades are essential to prevent larger crises in the future.

For the latest updates, follow official channels and ensure your household is ready for intermittent water disruptions throughout this maintenance period.