IT MAY take two weeks to completely fix the water problem in Durban, which has disrupted the water supply in many parts of Durban.
Although the dead valve has been repaired, the municipality said it will take a long time for the water to flow normally from the affected areas. The valve at the Nagle dam, it appeared Wednesday, was dead.
The death of the valve disrupted the supply of water to the south, north and west of the Port.
Among the affected townships are Mlaza, KwaMashu, Clermont, Ntuzuma, Inanda, KwaSanti and others.
The problem has even affected areas where the brothers live including Mhlanga, Westville and others.
The municipality announced that the repair of the valve was completed yesterday.
The Mayor of Durban, Mr. Cyril Xaba, said that the organization that supplies them with water, Umngeni-uThukela Water, has informed them that the Nagle Dam will start working fully today.
Xaba said, however, it will take time for people to get water normally.
“When the water leaves this dam, it goes through a 43 km pipe to get to where it is cleaned. Once it reaches the place where it is cleaned, it goes to our water reservoirs. It will take a while, however, as we have reported before that our water reservoirs are dry and empty. It will take time for the water to fill up so that people can get it.”
Xaba said that those who live in low-lying areas will soon get water.
“It may take a week or two for those who live in high places to get water.”
He urged people to conserve water.
“We ask for cooperation with the community, people use it by taking care of the water. Those who water and wash cars, please stop for a moment because we want water to be available to all people.”
Xaba said they will send water vehicles to the affected areas.
“We will ensure that water goes to schools, hospitals and clinics. These are important institutions that should not receive water.”
Xaba warned water truck drivers not to try to sell water to people.
“We appeal to those who are sitting in silence not to use this difficult time to pursue their goals.”
Xaba revealed that they have started a water reduction program. The water will not come in the usual way.
“Some will find them in the morning and they will stop while we are in a hurry and the others are in some distant places. This will happen until the situation returns to normal.”
This problem just happened, opposition groups appeared who are not happy with the water problem that has hit Durban.
The official opposition party in the council, the DA, held peaceful protests in different parts of Thekwini, last week, where they complained about the water crisis.
ActionSA Councillor, Mr Zwakele Mncwango, said that they are worried about the water crisis in Durban.
Mncwango said the council leaders should answer for this water problem.