Gauteng Faces 16-Day Water Outage Due to Rand Water Maintenance
Gauteng residents are bracing for a significant water supply disruption as Rand Water, the province’s bulk water supplier, embarks on the second phase of a critical maintenance programme. This phase will run from Monday, 30 June to Friday, 18 July 2025, affecting Johannesburg, Pretoria (Tshwane), Ekurhuleni, and several surrounding municipalities.
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What the Maintenance Involves
Rand Water’s maintenance is essential to increase capacity and improve the reliability, availability, and efficiency of its water treatment and pumping infrastructure. This work follows the successful completion of the first phase, which included connecting a new pipeline and upgrading water supply stations.
During this next phase, pumping activity will be reduced at key systems such as Eikenhof, Zwartkopjes, and Palmiet. As a result, residents can expect low water pressure or intermittent supply in affected areas. The maintenance is strategically scheduled during the low consumption months to minimise disruption ahead of the anticipated high-demand season starting mid-August 2025.
Areas Affected
The outage will impact the entire Gauteng province, including the major metropolitan areas of Johannesburg, Ekurhuleni, and Tshwane. Other municipalities likely to experience disruptions include Rand West, Mogale City, Merafong, Madibeng, Lesedi, Govan Mbeki, Rustenburg, Royal Bafokeng, and nearby mines and industries.
The City of Ekurhuleni has already provided specific details on affected regions, while other municipalities are expected to release their notices soon. Rand Water advises residents to monitor communications from their local metros and municipalities for updates.
Impact on Residents and Businesses
During the maintenance period, water supply interruptions may range from reduced pressure to complete outages lasting several hours. Residents are encouraged to store sufficient water for domestic use in advance. Local municipalities and Rand Water plan to deploy water tankers to assist communities severely affected by the outages.
Businesses and industries relying heavily on water are also advised to prepare for possible disruptions and adjust their operations accordingly.
Why This Maintenance is Crucial
Rand Water emphasises that this maintenance is vital to ensure a sustainable and efficient water supply system. The upgrades will enhance the network’s resilience and prepare it for increased water demand expected from mid-August onwards. Without these improvements, the ageing infrastructure risks more frequent breakdowns and service interruptions.
Current Water Supply Challenges
Gauteng’s water system faces ongoing challenges, including ageing infrastructure, high consumption rates, and significant water losses due to leaks — Johannesburg Water reports up to 46% water loss through leaks and infrastructure failures. These factors have strained the system despite recent rainfall improving dam levels. Authorities warn that water restrictions could be reinstated if demand continues to exceed supply.
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What Residents Should Do
- Stay Informed: Follow updates from Rand Water and your local municipality.
- Store Water: Keep enough water for essential use during outages.
- Conserve Water: Use water sparingly to help stabilise the system.
- Report Issues: Notify local authorities of leaks or water supply problems.
CHECK OUT: Rand Water Announces Planned Water Outage From 30 Jun – 21 July: Full List of Affected Areas
Remain Prepared
The 16-day water outage due to Rand Water’s maintenance is a necessary step to secure Gauteng’s water future. While the short-term disruptions will inconvenience many, the long-term benefits include improved water supply reliability and capacity. Residents and businesses are urged to prepare accordingly and support water conservation efforts during this critical period.