A Slow Drip of Hope: Mbombela Water Crisis Enters Recovery Phase

For frustrated residents of Mbombela and White River, the news is a mix of relief and continued strain. While electricity has finally been restored to the city’s critical Water Treatment Plant (WTP), officials warn that dry taps may persist for another two to three days as the crippled system struggles to recharge.

The crisis, which plunged parts of the city into a waterless new year, began on January 1 when multiple cable faults cut power to the plant, halting all pumping operations. Although repairs to the electrical infrastructure are now complete in some areas, the damage to the water supply network is severe.

Reservoirs at “Dangerously Low” Levels

Richmond Jele, spokesperson for water utility Silulumanzi, confirmed the pumps are running again but cautioned that recovery is a slow process. “The water supply system may take about two to three more days to return to normal,” Jele stated. The main challenge is that reservoirs, drained over days of zero production, are at critically low levels and need time to refill before pressure can be restored throughout the sprawling distribution network.

In a plea to the community, Jele urged residents to use water extremely sparingly to aid the recovery effort. Every litre saved helps reservoirs fill faster.

Tankers Deployed as a Stopgap

To alleviate the immediate hardship, Silulumanzi and the City of Mbombela have deployed a fleet of water tankers to service key affected areas in both Mbombela and White River. This emergency distribution will continue until the piped supply is fully stabilised.

For residents, the situation remains a daily grind. The return of power is a necessary first step, but the real milestonewater flowing reliably from household tapsis still days away. It’s a stark reminder of the fragile link between electricity and essential services, where a cable fault can translate into a week-long crisis for thousands. The message from authorities is clear: the fix is in progress, but patience and conservation are still the most valuable resources in town.