eThekwini continues water rationing to stabilise reservoirs

[File Image]: A view shows the ground of the Rialb reservoir as drinking water supplies have plunged to their lowest level.

The eThekwini Municipality in KwaZulu-Natal is still rationing water in large parts of its area. It says the aim is to allow water levels to stabilise in reservoirs. Water shortages have hit the city after a valve was damaged at Nagle Dam, restricting the flow of raw water to the Durban Heights Water Works for treatment.

ETHEKWINI NEWSFLASH
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
13 MARCH 2026

MUNICIPALITY URGES RESIDENTS TO REDUCE WATER CONSUMPTION AMID SUPPLY DISRUPTION*l

EThekwini Municipality appeals to residents and businesses to use water sparingly following an incident affecting the supply of raw water…

— eThekwini Municipality (@eThekwiniM) March 13, 2026

Mayor Cyril Xaba held an urgent executive committee meeting with bulk water supplier Umngeni-Uthukela Water to discuss water supply disruptions. He says repairs are now complete.

“This will allow the plant to process the maximum volume of water and begin replenishing the broader distribution network. However, full recovery of the reticulation system will thereafter commence for a period of two weeks.”

The Democratic Alliance in KwaZulu-Natal has lambasted the African National Congress in the eThekwini Municipality for failing to resolve the water crisis in the region despite President Cyril Ramaphosa’s intervention last month.

— SABC News (@SABCNews) March 14, 2026