Flash flood damage leaves Beaufort West water supply uncertain

Beaufort West residents face an uncertain wait for water after flash floods damaged the main pipeline supplying the Central Karoo town.

The municipality said the 600mm pipeline remained submerged on Monday morning, preventing technical teams from reaching it and assessing the full extent of the damage.

Acting municipal manager Frans Sabbat told SABC News that the pipe is the main supply line into Beaufort West. He said officials would only be able to estimate repair times after the water had receded enough for teams to inspect the site.

Water tankers from neighbouring municipalities have been brought in to assist affected communities while the interruption continues.

A joint operations centre involving municipal and other emergency role players has also been established to coordinate the response. The municipality has described the disruption as an emergency, although it had not formally declared a disaster when the update was issued.

The damage followed heavy rain and flash flooding in the area last week. Officials have not yet given a date for the restoration of the normal supply.

Residents should follow Beaufort West Municipality notices for confirmed tanker locations and changes to the restoration timetable.