Gauteng warned of 19 days of planned water disruptions what to expect and how to prepare | 29 May – 17 June 2026

Planned maintenance could affect taps across Gauteng

Rand Water has warned Gauteng residents to prepare for possible water supply disruptions as planned maintenance on key bulk systems gets underway between May and July 2026.

When the maintenance will happen

The utility said work on the Palmiet and Zuikerbosch water systems will start on 29 May and continue until 17 June 2026. Rand Water also identified a separate maintenance period around 17 July that is expected to last approximately two days.

Spokesperson Makenosi Maroo emphasised the work will be carried out in phases and cautioned residents not to expect a complete shutdown for the entire period.

“We’re not saying throughout there would not be water – the main dates for the maintenance are 29 May, that’s when we’re starting on a Friday,” Maroo explained.

Maroo outlined the phased approach, saying the first phase is expected to run from 29 May until 2 June, and that a recovery period is planned between the main maintenance windows.

Possible impacts and local responses

Rand Water warned the maintenance could affect a large number of municipal reservoirs and water towers supplied by the utility, potentially causing reduced pressure, intermittent supply or temporary outages in some areas.

Municipalities across Gauteng are expected to implement contingency measures to minimise disruption and manage supply during the maintenance periods. Residents are encouraged to monitor updates from their municipalities for details on affected areas, water tanker arrangements and expected recovery timelines.

Advice for residents

Johannesburg Water has urged residents to reduce consumption and use water sparingly while the work is underway.

• Expect possible short interruptions or lower pressure at taps.
• Follow municipal updates for local impact and tanker schedules.
• Conserve water where possible to ease pressure on systems.

Why the work is needed

Authorities say the maintenance is necessary to strengthen and preserve Gauteng’s bulk water infrastructure and to improve long-term reliability. The work comes as the province continues to face recurring pressure on water systems due to aging infrastructure, growing demand and high levels of consumption.

Residents should stay alert for further notices from Rand Water and their local municipality as the maintenance dates approach.