The works aim to prevent a potential burst that could take weeks to fix and impact up to 1.7 million people.

The pipeline links Ballymore Eustace Water Treatment Plan to the Saggart Reservoir and supplies approximately one-third of Dublin’s water. The planned repairs will involve fixing five leaks and replacing a 35-metre section of damaged pipe. To carry out the work, the pipeline must be fully drained.

This project marks the largest planned water mains repair in the greater Dublin area to date. While Uisce Éireann has prepared extensively over the past nine months, it warns of possible water supply disruptions in Dublin, Wicklow, and Kildare. In particular, 943 customers in areas including Kill, Arthurstown, Rathmore, Athgoe, and Tipperkevin are certain to experience service interruptions. Alternative water supplies will be provided in these communities.

Customers are being urged to conserve water over the weekend to minimise pressure on the system. Uisce Éireann is asking the public to avoid non-essential water use such as filling baths, washing cars, or using hosepipes.

Margaret Attridge, Head of Water Operations, explained that the pipeline can only remain out of service for up to 28 hours before supply levels drop dangerously low. Specialist crews will be working around the clock to complete the repairs within this tight window.

Updates will be provided throughout the weekend, and customers are encouraged to check Uisce Éireann’s website for advice on resolving common post-repair issues like cloudy water or airlocks. The utility emphasised the importance of community cooperation to ensure supply for critical services including hospitals and care facilities.