Harare water supply disruption as pump station undergoes repairs

Harare residents are preparing for a temporary water supply disruption on December 5 and 6 as the Warren Control Pump Station undergoes emergency maintenance. The repair work follows a severe burst at the facility, which has already left critical areas without water access.

In a statement, Harare City Council's acting town clerk, Engineer Phakamile Moyo, emphasized the urgency of the repairs.

"This is an unavoidable situation caused by the burst at one of our major supply points. Our teams will be working around the clock to ensure the repairs are completed swiftly and water supply is restored as soon as possible. We urge residents to bear with us during this time," he said.

The disruption will impact several parts of the city, including: the Central Business District (CBD), Northern and Eastern Suburbs, industrial areas, and communities in Mabvuku and Tafara, which are expected to face the most significant challenges.

The City Council has advised residents to store adequate water supplies in advance. Additionally, water bowsers will be deployed to the hardest-hit zones to provide temporary relief.

"We understand the inconvenience this may cause, and we sincerely apologise," said Engineer Moyo. "This maintenance work is essential for the long-term reliability of the city's water supply system."

The planned shutdown underscores the ongoing challenges posed by Harare's aging water infrastructure. The city has experienced recurring water shortages in recent years, with calls for more significant investments in modernization and maintenance becoming increasingly urgent.

Residents are hopeful that the repairs will be completed on time to minimize disruptions during the holiday season.