Water crisis looms as Warren Control Pump Station shuts down for urgent repairs

Ivan Zhakata

Herald Correspondent

Harare residents are bracing for a temporary disruption in water supply as the Warren Control Pump Station undergoes emergency maintenance.
The shutdown, scheduled for December 5 and 6, is due to a severe burst at the station, which left critical areas without access to water.

In a statement, Harare City Council acting town clerk Engineer Phakamile Moyo said the repairs were urgent hence the shutdown.

“This is an unavoidable situation caused by the burst at one of our major supply points,” he said.

“Our teams will be working around the clock to ensure the repairs are completed swiftly and water supply is restored as soon as possible. We urge residents to bear with us during this time.”

The affected areas include the Central Business District (CBD), northern suburbs, industrial areas, and the eastern suburbs, with communities in Mabvuku and Tafara among the hardest hit.

Residents have been advised to store adequate water supplies ahead of the shutdown.

The City Council has also assured the public that water bowsers would be deployed to the most affected zones to alleviate the impact.

“We understand the inconvenience this may cause, and we sincerely apologise,” Eng Moyo said.

“This maintenance work is essential for the long-term reliability of the city’s water supply system.”

Harare has faced recurring water challenges in recent years, and the shutdown serves as a stark reminder of the aging infrastructure that demands urgent attention.