The Nairobi City Water and Sewerage Company (NWSC) has announced a 24-hour water supply shutdown set to commence on Thursday, October 5, 2023, at 6:00 AM, lasting until Friday, October 6, 2023, at 12:00 PM.
The disruption will be due to essential maintenance and repairs at the Ngethu Water Treatment Plant, as well as scheduled maintenance at the Kiambu reservoir.
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NWSC officials cited a major leakage on the raw water pipeline running from the Matara Raw Water Chamber to the Ngethu Water Treatment Plant as the primary reason for the shutdown.
In an exclusive statement, NWSC spokesperson, Jane Wanjiku, explained the necessity of the operation: “We must take this action to address the significant leakage issue promptly. Neglecting it could lead to more substantial and costly problems down the line.”
Additionally, the maintenance work at the Kiambu reservoir is being carried out in preparation for the anticipated El Niño phenomenon during the October 2023 short rains.
“Our proactive approach is aimed at ensuring that Nairobi is adequately prepared to handle the challenges posed by extreme weather conditions,” added Wanjiku.
The areas that will experience water supply interruptions during the shutdown include:
- Central Business District (CBD): The heart of Nairobi’s economic activities.
- University of Nairobi Main Campus: Affecting students and staff.
- Coca-Cola Factory: A key industrial establishment.
- Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA): Potentially impacting travel operations.
- EPZ-Athi River and Mlolongo Area: Industrial zones.
- Gatundu and Kiambu Towns: Residential and commercial areas.
NWSC is urging residents and businesses in the affected areas to use water sparingly during the interruption period. Ms. Wanjiku expressed her regret for the inconvenience caused, assuring residents that every effort will be made to restore water supply as swiftly as possible.
Residents and business owners in these areas are encouraged to make necessary preparations to ensure minimal disruption to their daily routines and operations.
This temporary setback is being viewed as a proactive measure to safeguard the city’s water supply infrastructure and ensure a reliable and efficient water service in the long run.
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As Nairobi residents gear up for the 24-hour water shutdown, it is hoped that this crucial maintenance work will pave the way for a more resilient water supply system, capable of withstanding the challenges posed by changing weather patterns and urban growth.
