There is a glimmer of hope for residents facing a days-long water crisis, as electricity supply to the Water Treatment Plant (WTP) in Mbombela has been restored. However, relief has yet to reach household taps, as reservoir levels remain dangerously low and the water distribution network is struggling to restore water levels. The crisis, which began on January 1, was triggered by multiple cable faults in Mbombela that cut power to the WTP.
While the electrical repairs are complete in some parts of Mbombela, other areas are still in the dark. The spokesperson for Silulumanzi, Richmond Jele, confirmed that while the pumps are running again, the recovery process will take time. “The water supply system may take about two to three more days to return to normal,” Jele stated.
“We are pleading with community members to use water sparingly as we work to ensure that all reservoirs reach full capacity.” To mitigate the impact on residents, Silulumanzi and the City of Mbombela (CoM) have deployed water tankers to key affected areas in Mbombela and White River. These tankers will remain active until water supply is stabilised. Meanwhile, CoM technicians are on the ground repairing the faulty cables.
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