Residents in parts of southern eThekwini and the Ugu District are expected to experience water supply interruptions on Tuesday as uMngeni-uThukela Water undertakes emergency repairs on the South Coast Pipeline.
The utility says it will shut down the pipeline for eight hours, from 8am to 4pm, to repair a leak on a section of the pipeline near the Amanzimtoti Waterworks.
As a result, several communities along the South Coast will experience little to no water supply during the shutdown period.
uMngeni-uThukela Water says the repairs are necessary to ensure the long-term reliability of the water distribution system and has urged residents to use water sparingly and store enough water ahead of the interruption.
The announcement comes as the utility reports progress in addressing the unpleasant taste and smell that has affected water supplied to some parts of eThekwini in recent weeks.
According to the utility, more than 70 percent of 2-MIB the compound responsible for the earthy and musty taste and smell has been removed from the water supply.
The problem was linked to algae growth in Inanda Dam, which affected raw water supplied to the Wiggins Water Treatment Works.
Spokesperson Siyabonga Maphumulo says recent water quality tests indicate that 2-MIB levels in treated water have declined significantly and are now below the threshold at which most consumers can detect the taste or odour.
He says the improvements are the result of adjustments to the treatment process at the Wiggins plant, coupled with intensified water quality monitoring.
"As Umgeni Water, we recognise the inconvenience caused to consumers during this period, and we appreciate the patience and understanding shown by affected communities while these interventions were being implemented," Maphumulo said.
The utility says it will continue monitoring water quality closely while working to ensure a stable and reliable supply to affected communities.