Media Alert: Restoration of Water in Mangaung Metro

Executive Mayor Councillor Olly Mlamleli:

“After a week-long struggle with water interruptions caused by the first pipe burst on 16 November (Thursday) and when we had thought we had overcome the disruption, a second pipe burst on 20 November (Monday).

This exacerbated the situation and a number of areas within Bloemfontein were affected. We speedily had to deploy water tanks and jojos, which at some point appeared to be insufficient as a result of water demand.

After 2AM this morning, my technical team called me and indicated that they are done assembling the pipe and they have started pumping water from Welbedacht Dam to the Brandkop (Pellisier) reservoir. I can safely say that by end of today, water will be restored in all areas affected by the pipe bursts.

I am aware that in some of our townships there is still a problem of water supply and the following areas are affected:

• Namibia
• Bloemside
• Freedom Square
• Grassland
• Ipopeng
• Phase 6 and 10
• Phola Park

I would like to assure you that I have activated my team to deploy water tankers/jojos while we are still filling the reservoirs.

Maselspoort Reservoir is currently at 100% capacity. It supplies the northern part of the city, as well as Batho, Bochabela, Phahameng and a portion of Heidedal. These areas are already getting their water.

Let me also take the opportunity to thank residents and business people of Mangaung for their resilience and patience during this interruption. I also want to thank all those who directly interacted with me when they encountered a misinformation by some of my colleagues.

It is this type of relationship that is going to assist in taking this municipality to another level and I once again, would humbly appreciate the co-operation that the city has received.”

Issued by: MMM Communications – GM: Communications  – Qondile Khedama
Public enquiries: Call Centre: 0800 111 300