Rand Water, the bulk water supplier for Gauteng, has announced a major maintenance programme that will affect several metros and municipalities in the province. The maintenance, which is scheduled to take place from May 29 to July 17, 2026, will involve upgrades to electrical and water infrastructure at the Palmiet and Zuikerbosch sites.
Impact on Gauteng Residents
According to Rand Water spokesperson, Makenosi Maroo, the maintenance is essential to ensure system reliability and improve pump availability and standby capacity. However, it will result in water supply interruptions for residents in the cities of Johannesburg, Tshwane, and Ekurhuleni, as well as the local municipalities of Mogale City, Rand West, Merafong, Rustenburg, Madibeng, Lesedi, Victor Khanye, Govan Mbeki, Thembisile Hani, Midvaal, Emfuleni, Metsimaholo, Ngwathe, and Royal Bafokeng Administration.
The maintenance will also affect various industries, mines, and direct customers, including Airports Company South Africa (ACSA). Rand Water has issued a 21-day notice to all affected municipalities, industries, and direct customers in line with its commitment to operational transparency and excellence. As noted on the Eskom website, the power utility is also undertaking critical maintenance at the Palmiet and Zuikerbosch sites.
Maintenance Schedule
The key maintenance activities scheduled from May 29 to July 17, 2026, include:
- Eskom-related electrical maintenance at the Zuikerbosch and Palmiet systems
- Installation and upgrading of motors at Zuikerbosch Raw Water Engine Room 4
- Replacement of critical valves and thrust bearings at the Palmiet, Vereeniging, and Forest Hill systems; and M11 pipeline cross-connections within the Mapleton system
Meanwhile, the City of Johannesburg’s water supply entity, Joburg Water, has issued an alert to residents across the city about the upcoming major maintenance by Rand Water. The maintenance is expected to affect residents across the city, many of whom are already experiencing severe water shortages. For more information on water conservation, visit the Department of Water and Sanitation website.
