Cape Town residents are being urged to reduce their water use during an essential maintenance period scheduled for 12 to 24 August. The call comes as the National Department of Water and Sanitation carries out work described as necessary to support the long-term reliability of the city’s water supply. The maintenance is framed as a precautionary and reliability-focused measure rather than an ongoing emergency, and residents are asked to adjust consumption to help limit strain on available supply while the work takes place. Authorities advise that the conservation effort should be observed throughout the maintenance window, from the start date until the work is completed. The guidance is intended to ensure the city’s water infrastructure can continue to function effectively after the maintenance period. Further details on the specific activities are not provided in the available source, but the overall message emphasizes compliance with reduced water usage instructions during 12–24 August to support uninterrupted long-term service.