CHDM Announces 16 December Water Interruption in Dordrecht

WATER WOES HIT DORDRECHT AS CHDM ANNOUNCES DAY-LONG SUPPLY SHUTDOWN

Dordrecht residents are being warned to brace for a full water shutdown, as the Chris Hani District Municipality (CHDM) prepares to switch off supply to several township areas on 16 December 2025.

According to a public notice issued by CHDM Municipal Manager Gcobani Mashiyi, water pumping operations will resume on 17 December, once installation work on a booster pump is completed.

Booster Pump Installation Forces Shutdown

The municipality says the interruption is unavoidable and forms part of a major upgrade aimed at improving the reliability of water supply in Dordrecht.

CHDM explained in the notice that technicians will be finalising the installation of a new water booster pump, a key component the municipality believes will stabilise pressure and reduce ongoing outages that residents have long complained about.

The shutdown will affect Dordrecht townships, though CHDM did not specify which areas will be hit hardest.

Residents Told to Prepare for a Dry Day

The municipality has urged residents to store enough water ahead of the shutdown, warning that taps will run dry for the full duration of the work being carried out.

“We apologise for any inconvenience this may cause,” Mashiyi said, adding that the upgrade is necessary for long-term improvement.

This announcement comes at a time when many communities across the district have been battling water shortages and inconsistent supply, often forcing residents to rely on water tankers and emergency storage. The district has faced criticism for aging infrastructure, leaks and slow response times.

24/7 Hotline Open for Complaints

CHDM reminded residents that any issues or complaints can be reported to its 24/7 Customer Care Centre at 0800 100 100.

The municipality also encouraged residents to follow official communication channels for further updates as the maintenance date approaches.

Water Reliability Still a Burning Issue Across CHD

The district continues to battle various infrastructure challenges, including pump failures, reservoir depletion and pipeline breaks. While the municipality has launched several upgrade projects in recent months, frustration remains high among communities who say service delivery progress is too slow.

Dordrecht residents, in particular, have repeatedly voiced concern over supply interruptions — a problem made worse during peak holiday periods when demand increases.

CHDM Promises Improved Service Delivery

Despite ongoing challenges, the municipality insists that upgrades like the one scheduled for 16 December are part of a broader plan to modernise infrastructure across the district.

Mashiyi assured residents that the district is committed to improving service delivery and reliability.