Residents and businesses across several municipalities in Gauteng and neighbouring areas could face water supply interruptions as Eskom undertakes critical planned maintenance on key electrical infrastructure linked to Rand Water systems.
In a media statement issued on 15 May 2026, Rand Water confirmed that Eskom will carry out maintenance work at the Palmiet and Zuikerbosch sites between May and July 2026. The utility said the maintenance is necessary to improve pump availability, increase standby capacity and reduce the risk of equipment failures and plant trips.
Rand Water explained that some pumps will need to be switched off during the maintenance period, which may lead to disruptions in water supply. The work has been strategically scheduled during winter, a period traditionally associated with lower water demand.
“The planned maintenance activities are necessary to improve pump availability and standby capacity. They also enhance operational flexibility across key Rand Water systems, reduce the risk of plant trips and equipment failures. The work is scheduled to take place in May and July 2026. During this period, Rand Water will need to switch off some of its pumps and this will result in water supply interruptions,” the statement read.
The maintenance programme, set to run from 29 May to 17 July 2026, will include Eskom-related electrical maintenance at the Zuikerbosch and Palmiet systems, the installation and upgrading of motors at the Zuikerbosch Raw Water Engine Room 4, the replacement of critical valves and thrust bearings at Palmiet, Vereeniging and Foresthill systems, as well as M11 pipeline cross-connections within the Mapleton system.
Municipalities that may be affected include the Cities of Johannesburg, Tshwane and Ekurhuleni, along with Mogale City, Rand West, Merafong, Rustenburg, Madibeng, Lesedi, Victor Khanye, Govan Mbeki, Thembisile Hani, Midvaal, Emfuleni, Metsimaholo, Ngwathe and the Royal Bafokeng Administration.
Rand Water also warned that industries, mines and direct customers, including Airports Company South Africa (ACSA), could experience the impact of the planned maintenance.
The bulk water supplier said it has already issued a 21-day notice to affected municipalities, industries and customers to allow them enough time to implement contingency measures and minimise disruptions to consumers.
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