26 May 2015

The Water Utilities Corporation (WUC) has warned of periods of no water supply in the greater Gaborone area, even outside the water rationing schedule. 

WUC took a decision to shut down the North South Carrier Scheme I (NSCI) pipeline due to a burst in order to carry out the necessary repairs and avoid any further damage. The shut down would last for at least three days from May 25. The pipeline experienced a pipe burst upstream of Palapye, according to a press release from WUC.

The effects of the unavailability of the pipeline would set in at different times in the different areas of greater Gaborone as and when these areas deplete their stored supply. 

The press release explained that the NSCI pipeline transported water from Letsibogo Dam to the south of the country as well as supplying Palapye, Mahalapye, Serowe and the greater Gaborone area.

"With effect from the 9th of March 2015, the newly commissioned Dikgatlhong Dam has been supplyng water to the areas through the same pipeline, relieving Letsibogo Dam.  The pipeline from Dikgatlhong Dam to the south, the NSCII is still under consruction and is scheduled to reach Gaborone in 2020".

The Water Utilities Corporation, therefore, urged all water users to use the available water sparingly and adhere to the water restrictions,which have been in effect since August 2012.