Rand Water has warned Gauteng residents to prepare for possible water supply disruptions as planned maintenance work on key bulk water systems gets underway between May and July 2026.
The utility, together with Eskom, will conduct maintenance on the Palmiet and Zuikerbosch water systems from 29 May until 17 June 2026, a process expected to affect multiple municipal reservoirs and water towers across the province.
Maintenance to Happen in Phases
Rand Water spokesperson Makenosi Maroo said the work would be carried out in phases and stressed that residents should not expect a complete water shutdown for the entire period.
“We’re not saying throughout there would not be water – the main dates for the maintenance are 29 May, that’s when we’re starting on a Friday,” Maroo explained.
She said the first phase of maintenance is expected to run from 29 May until 2 June, while another key maintenance period is planned around 17 July, lasting approximately two days.
“In between these two dates, we need a recovery period – so it does not mean there will not be water completely for the two months or for the 19 days,” she added.
Reservoirs and Water Towers Could Be Affected
The planned maintenance is expected to affect a large number of municipal water systems supplied by Rand Water, potentially causing reduced pressure, intermittent supply or temporary outages in some areas.
Municipalities across Gauteng are expected to implement contingency measures to minimise disruptions and manage water supply during the maintenance periods.
Residents Urged to Use Water Sparingly
Johannesburg Water has also urged residents to reduce consumption and use water sparingly while the work is underway.
Authorities say the maintenance is necessary to strengthen and preserve Gauteng’s bulk water infrastructure and improve long-term reliability.
Residents are encouraged to monitor updates from their municipalities for specific information regarding affected areas, water tanker arrangements and expected recovery timelines.
The maintenance comes as Gauteng continues to face recurring pressure on water supply systems due to aging infrastructure, growing demand and high levels of consumption.
