Thousands of Edison residents woke up to dry taps and low water pressure today after a significant water main break disrupted service across the township.
The incident, which occurred shortly after midnight near Ben Franklin Elementary School on Woodbridge Avenue, has left approximately 20,000 residents and businesses without water or with severely reduced pressure.
Immediate Response and Challenges
Emergency crews responded swiftly to the rupture of the 20-inch water main. Mayor Sam Joshi stated that preliminary assessments suggest that the combination of aging infrastructure and recent freezing temperatures contributed to the pipe’s failure.
“Some of these pipes are more than 80 years old,” said Mayor Joshi. “The extreme weather conditions put an unbearable strain on our water system.”
To mitigate further disruptions, repair teams have managed to isolate the affected segment of the pipe, reducing the water flow by 70%. Specialized equipment is being deployed to install an insertion valve, allowing for a more precise repair process. Township officials are optimistic that water service will be fully restored by Friday morning.
Boil Water Advisory Issued
In the meantime, a boil water advisory has been issued for all impacted areas as a precautionary measure. While no contamination has been detected, residents are urged to boil water for at least one minute before consumption. “We’re taking no chances when it comes to public health,” emphasized Mayor Joshi.
Support for Affected Residents
To assist the community, water distribution centers have been set up at Firehouse #1 on Plainfield Avenue and Firehouse #2 on Route 27. Residents can collect bottled water from these locations. Additionally, the Edison Senior Center on Woodbridge Avenue is open to the public, providing restroom facilities and a respite for those in need.
Local businesses have also stepped in to help. Restaurants are offering complimentary bottled water, and neighboring towns have provided additional resources to support Edison’s recovery efforts. “This is a testament to our community’s resilience and solidarity,” said a township spokesperson.
Long-Term Implications
This incident highlights the urgent need to address aging water infrastructure in Edison. Mayor Joshi and township officials have pledged to prioritize upgrades in the coming year, including replacing outdated pipes and improving system resilience against extreme weather events. “This is not just about fixing today’s problem but preventing tomorrow’s,” the mayor said.
Looking Ahead
As repair crews work tirelessly to restore normalcy, Edison residents are encouraged to stay informed through official updates on the township’s website and social media channels. Despite the inconvenience, community spirit remains high as neighbors band together to navigate the temporary crisis.
Water service is expected to resume gradually, and further updates will be provided as the situation develops. Residents are reminded to continue boiling water until the advisory is lifted and to exercise patience as crews finalize repairs.
For ongoing updates, visit Edison Township’s official website or contact the emergency hotline. A press conference is scheduled for Friday morning to provide further details on the restoration timeline and future infrastructure plans.
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