Burst pipe delays newspapers

"The break occurred at 5.30pm yesterday, and we took corrective action and were initially told that the printing plant would be up and running by 10pm last night," says André Smit, Printing press Manager.

Additional water supplies were brought in to assist in the printing process: "Water is needed to maintain a low temperature of our printing presses and also to rinse printing plates, prior to each page being processed.

"We use large quantities of water every evening and cannot operate without it. Our other concern was the surrounding communities' lack of water supply.

"Later we realised that the water issues were unsolved and called in the assistance of the local fire department, who arrived speedily to assist the team in re-filling the 7 000 litre water tank for printing to continue and ensuring that the 60 metres of water pipes were installed. We were really impressed with the service from the fire department."

Jameel Chand, spokesperson for Johannesburg Water, says that they take full responsibility for the burst water pipe. While the water pipe is being repaired, four water tankers have been placed for the community's use.

Beeld's Morning Edition is available from street vendors and agents. The afternoon edition will appear today without its regular inserts such as Beeld Plus due to the printing press problems. Readers are welcome to visit Beeld's website for up to date news at www.beeld.com

Editor, Peet Kruger tenders apologies to affected subscribers and readers from Beeld for the problem.