Durban North residents arose to dry taps as the Virginia Reservoir was temporarily closed due to multiple bursts across the area. Residents and councillors stressed that the government should prioritise their budget on water infrastructure and addressing leaks.
Ward 36 councillor, Heinz de Boer, updated residents and said: “The Virginia Reservoir outlet valves have been closed to protect the levels. This followed a serious burst in Greenwood Park.”
Ward 35 councillor, Bradley Singh informed residents that the Virginia Reservoir was closed due to a burst pipe on Hedley Road and Clyde Road. He said a municipal tanker had been requested to assist residents. After a few hours, Singh informed that the Water department successfully isolated the issue and water restoration will occur. “During the ongoing repairs, any drops of in levels will result in the department closing outlets to protect the system,” Singh said.
Singh had previously updated residents about low water levels due to uMngeni-uThukela Water not supplying both the reservoir and Virginia Tower with the required 330 to 350 megalitres to maintain capacity. Singh said: “Additionally, due to extremely low levels, the department may decide to close the outlets at any moment. We urge everyone to conserve water.”
Singh added that two pumps were operational at the tower. Later that day, he informed residents that water supply could be further affected due to silt entering the reticulation system. This update was provided after a resident alerted him about discoloured water emerging from their taps.
