Tshwane residents face pool closures due to chlorine shortage

Just three months after a shortage of chlorine delayed the public swimming pools' opening for Spring Day celebrations, the City of Tshwane residents are experiencing a frustrating repeat of events.

This comes after the city announced that it is facing another chlorine delivery issue, which has caused temporary closures of Saulsville and Tjaart van Vuuren pools.

Municipal spokesperson Lindela Mashigo said a shortage of chlorine gas, which is a critical component in maintaining safe pool water quality, is temporarily affecting operations at several municipal pools. 

“Since the start of the swimming and gala season in September, the city’s swimming pools section under Community Services has worked tirelessly to ensure that all pools meet the required health and safety standards. Our teams have been consistent in monitoring, testing, and treating water to keep facilities safe and ready for public use,” he said.

Mashigo said the city has been informed by both contracted chlorine-gas suppliers operating across Gauteng of an unforeseen delay in deliveries due to a shortage of operational cylinders within the broader market. 

“This logistical disruption is beyond the city’s control. Without an adequate and timeous supply of chlorine gas, certain pools cannot maintain the strict disinfection levels required for safe public use, and temporary closures have become unavoidable.” 

He emphasised that the city prioritises the health and safety of all swimmers. 

“Chlorine gas is essential for disinfecting pool water and ensuring protection against waterborne risks. While our staff continues to implement all other aspects of pool maintenance, the safe operation of facilities cannot be compromised. The city will, therefore, temporarily close affected pools until chlorine supply stabilises and water quality meets the required standards for public use,” Mashigo said.

On September 1 this year, the city experienced a delay in chlorine delivery by its service provider, resulting in the postponement of the pools' opening.

At the time, the DA expressed an intention to propose a motion to council on the opening of municipal swimming pools, citing that facilities were initially closed in 2024 as a temporary measure during water shortages.

“The permanent closure of Tshwane pools has meant that residents who don’t have access to private gyms have been left high and dry. The closures have kept professional and school-level swimming galas from being hosted in the city, swim coaches from running their businesses, and deprived ordinary residents of a municipal facility for which they pay rates and taxes,” the party said.

This week, Mashigo said: “The city sincerely regrets the inconvenience caused and assures residents that teams are working closely with suppliers to expedite delivery and restore full operations as quickly as possible. Further updates will be communicated through the city’s official platforms.” 

rapula.moatshe@inl.co.za