De Rust in the Western Cape uses a gravity-driven water system that doesn't require electricity

[mylesillidge]

Small South African village with a unique water supply that is immune to power cuts

Major towns and cities in South Africa face worsening water-supply issues due to failing infrastructure and load reduction in some areas. However, a small Western Cape village has a trick up its sleeve.

Located at the bottom of the Swartberg Mountain range, the picturesque village of De Rust relies on a gravity-driven water supply system, insulating its taps from municipal failures and power cuts.

 

[garyc]

Today, the village has retained many of its late Victorian architectural qualities

Sounds like the engineering on this system was also Victorian. Practical approaches meant for for long-term reliability with minimal maintenance.