A 6-inch cast iron water main near 1942 Lusitania Street in the Punchbowl/Pauoa Valley area is leaking badly and requires immediate repair, the Board of Water Supply said tonight.

One lane of south-bound traffic will be shut down from 1934 Lusitania Street to the Pauoa Road intersection. The traffic lane entering the valley will stay open.

Buses will be allowed through the one lane in contra-flow. All other traffic out of the valley will have to take alternate routes.

Water will be shut off during the repair, affecting 19 homes and 1 apartment building in the area. Residents are asked to conserve water. A water wagon is available for affected residents at 1939 Lusitania Street at Ladd Lane.

Crews are expected to work through the night to complete the repair.