Cape Town: A major pipe burst was observed in Imizamo Yethu (IY) that caused flooding. The Water and Sanitation Directorate responded to a major pipe burst in IY, Hout Bay. This caused a severe flooding inside the homes within the informal settlement and impacted the local cemetery.
Officials located the root cause of the flood coming from a 350mm diameter pipe burst by working late into the night. However, the pipe was found directly underneath an informal structure within a densely populated part of Imizamo Yethu informal settlement.
In order to gain access to repair the damaged pipe section, relocation of the affected residents and their structures will need to be arranged.
Moreover, the City of Cape Town has convened a special task team to co-ordinate and manage the disaster including the representatives from the Water and Sanitation, Human Settlements, Safety and Security, Disaster Risk Management and Recreation and Parks Departments.
As soon as excavation and repairs can begin, approximately 11 structures are built on top of the pipeline and have been moved. To reduce the water loss and further damage to surrounding structures, the pipeline valves have been closed and the water supply for several areas has been shut off.
Some parts of Hout Bay are temporarily receiving water from the Mount Rhodes, Hout Bay and Suikerbossie reservoirs. This is a limited supply and is expected to run out during the extensive repair process.
Notably, the residents are advised that the water disruption is likely to affect all areas in and around Hout Bay. The locals who still have water are requested to reduce their consumption to help in managing the existing water supply.
Furthermore, the support that measures in place with water tankers are available and stationed at the following locations:
- Imizamo Yethu Taxi Rank
- Mount Rhodes
- Shell Garage
- Valley Road (considering the corner of Park Road)
- One Tanker will roam between Hangberg and Hout Bay Heights