Calgary Water Service Repair Update: Delays Expected

The resumption of normal water service in Calgary is facing delays of up to an additional three to five weeks due to significant damage found in the feedermain that ruptured last week. The city has identified the need for additional repairs to be made while the pipe is bare and dry to prevent another major rupture.

Sue Henry of the Calgary Emergency Management Agency acknowledges that this news was not what residents were hoping to hear, but assures that the decision was not made lightly. Calgarians are urged to continue with water-saving measures for a longer period to ensure emergency reserves do not run dry.

Mayor Jyoti Gondek has proposed various workarounds, such as reducing indoor water usage by avoiding shaving and capturing rainwater in kiddie pools. The city is actively seeking cooperation from residents in reducing water consumption as crews work to fix the water main break and restore normal water flow into underground reservoirs.

The city of Calgary, along with surrounding municipalities like Airdrie and Chestermere, have implemented mandatory and voluntary water cutback rules following the major water line rupture. Residents are asked to reduce indoor water usage through measures like shorter showers and minimizing toilet flushes, while outdoor watering is currently banned.

Gondek emphasizes the importance of water conservation and encourages residents to take advantage of upcoming rain by capturing water for non-drinking purposes. Complaints have been received regarding water usage on golf courses and city workers watering trees, but Gondek clarifies that non-potable or recycled water is being utilized for these activities.

Water consumption in Calgary has exceeded the city’s rationed threshold, indicating a need for immediate conservation efforts to prevent water scarcity. Airdrie Mayor Peter Brown urges residents to conserve water by simple actions like turning off taps while washing hands.

The repair process for the ruptured pipe involves welding a replacement into place, cleaning, and testing it. Work was briefly paused earlier in the week due to injuries sustained by workers. Despite the challenges, officials are working diligently to restore water service to the city and surrounding areas.

As we navigate through these challenges, cooperation from residents is crucial in ensuring the conservation of water resources. Let’s continue to support efforts to reduce water usage and work together to overcome this temporary setback in Calgary’s water service.

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