Palmiet system problems leave parts of Tshwane dry as Rand Water battles emergency repairs

Palmiet system problems leave parts of Tshwane dry as Rand Water battles emergency repairs

For many Tshwane residents, water uncertainty has once again become part of daily life. From Laudium to Soshanguve, taps are running slow or not at all as Rand Water grapples with technical challenges on its Palmiet system.

The City of Tshwane confirmed on Monday, 26 January 2026, that emergency work is under way after problems on the Palmiet system forced Rand Water to significantly reduce pumping. While repairs continue, large parts of the metro supplied through this system may experience intermittent water supply, low pressure and slow reservoir recovery.

Why the Palmiet system matters

The Palmiet system is a critical backbone of Tshwane’s bulk water supply. When pumping is reduced, the impact is felt quickly across reservoirs that serve both densely populated townships and long-established suburbs. According to the city, Rand Water is currently pumping at around 180 megalitres per day far below normal operating capacity.

This has raised concerns online, with residents venting frustrations on social media about repeated disruptions, especially during summer when water demand peaks.

Areas currently affected

The city released a comprehensive list of affected reservoirs and suburbs, including:

The Reeds Reservoir:
The Reeds (all extensions), Brakfontein, Olievenhoutbosch, Rua Vista Ext 12

Laudium Reservoir:
Laudium, Claudius, Erasmia, Christoburg, Laudium Extensions 1–4

Atteridgeville HL Reservoir:
Atteridgeville and multiple extensions, Kwaggasrand, Saulsville, West Park

Lotus Gardens Reservoir:
Lotus Gardens, Fort West Extensions 4 and 5, Lotus Gardens Extension 2

Pretoriusrand Reservoir:
Olievenhoutbosch (all extensions), Blue Hills, Rua Vista multiple extensions

Soshanguve L Reservoir:
Soshanguve East and South, Mabopane-S, Rietgat, Onderstepoort, Wentzelrust

Residents in these areas may notice fluctuating supply as reservoirs struggle to recover.

City and Rand Water coordinate response

The City of Tshwane says its technical teams are working closely with Rand Water to track reservoir levels and system performance in real time. While no firm restoration timeline has been provided, officials have promised regular updates as repairs progress.

For communities already weary from past water challenges, patience is wearing thin. Still, the city has urged residents to use water sparingly and thanked them for their cooperation during what it describes as a temporary but complex supply disruption.

As Tshwane continues to grow, the latest Palmiet system setback has once again highlighted how fragile bulk water infrastructure can be and how quickly everyday life is disrupted when it falters.