Online Reporter
Thupeyo Muleya
Beitbridge Bureau
The border town of Beitbridge is facing a water crisis following a major breakdown on the main pumping line, leaving the entire town without running water.
In a public notice issued on Monday, the Municipality of Beitbridge advised residents that water supply had been interrupted due to the fault.
“The Municipality of Beitbridge wishes to advise all residents that there is a water supply interruption due to a major breakdown on the pumping main. The entire town is affected,” read part of the notice.
The local authority said its technical team was seized with the matter and expressed hope that repairs would be completed by the close of business on Monday.
“If all goes according to plan, the repair works should be complete by the end of business tomorrow, 22 September 2026. Water supply is anticipated to be fully restored thereafter,” said the Municipality.
As a result, some schools have suspended classes for pupils in ECD up to grade 5 due to the ongoing water crisis across the town.
The town is experiencing rapid growth driven by increased economic activity and its proximity to South Africa, putting immense pressure on existing infrastructure.
In many of the old suburbs, including Dulivhadzimu, ageing sewer and water reticulation systems are now giving in, resulting in frequent pipe bursts, sewer overflows and prolonged dry spells.
The Government and its development partners have been periodically working on upgrading and expanding the town’s water and sewer facilities to match its development patterns.
