Vandalism of a bulk water system in Parkwood on Sunday 21 April had hundreds of residents in the southern suburbs without running water.
In a notice to residents later in the day, the City of Cape Town’s water and sanitation Mayco member Zahid Badroodien said due to the volatility of the area work could only commence once law enforcement support was available.
“Due to vandalism of an air valve in Parkwood, there is a leak in the system. In order to repair this damage it will require shutting off the water supply, impacting a significant portion of the southern areas of the city.”
Communities affected included Pelican Park, Eagle Park, New Horizon, Peacock Close, Pelican Heights, Strandfontein, San Remo, Bay View, Phumlani, Zeekoevlei, Grassy Park, Lotus River, Schaapkraal, Ottery, Wetton, Knole Park, Retreat, Heathfield, Steenberg, Elfindale, Marina Da Gama, Lavender Hill, Seawinds, Vrygrond, Parkwood Estate, Fairways, Southfield, Plumstead, Wynberg, Muizenberg, Lakeside, Westlake, Kirstenhof and Diep River.
“We understand that this will impact a large area of the city. However, responding and repairing this vandalism quickly is necessary for the City to do in order to protect our water infrastructure,” said Badroodien.
By Sunday afternoon, residents in Plumstead experienced low water pressure as water slowly trickled in and by Monday morning, taps had run dry.
Badroodien explained that three bulk valves of 1 220mm, 915mm and 535mm had to be shut down before repairs could commence.
“Reports are coming in from various communities noting low to no water pressure. This is expected, please do not be alarmed.”
He added that it may take up to 12 hours for the pipes to be purged of all the water.
“Due to the volatility of this area, work will only begin once law enforcement support is available to accompany the team,” he said.
“We apologise for the inconvenience caused to all affected residents, responding and repairing this vandalism quickly is necessary for the city to do in order to protect our water infrastructure.”
Meanwhile, Ward 63 councillor Carmen Siebritz notified residents water tankers would be made available if the need arose.
“I’ve been out to the site and due to the stolen valves on the pipeline in Blackbird Avenue Parkwood, there are major repairs that need to be effected. Unfortunately, there’s no timeline at this stage.”
She urged residents to collect water until such time that an assessment is conducted.
“Should the need arise for tankers, they will be provided and information on how the tankers will be distributed.”
