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I have noted with concern communication from Rand Water indicating continued service interruptions after a power outage affected the pipeline network at the Vereeniging Water Treatment Plant earlier this week. 

While Rand Water’s bulk pumping has fully recovered, local water systems battle the knock-on effect and reservoirs are currently at critically low levels. 

I, too, am affected by these water shortages and recognize how untenable the situation is becoming. Our City continues to experience significant service delivery break-downs, exacerbated by the country-wide electricity crisis.

These issues remain high on my agenda, and I will continue to work with my Mayoral Committee and City administrators to find sustainable, long-term solutions to the infrastructure problems plaguing our City.

Last month, I announced that the City, through Joburg Water, has invested just over R400 million which will be used over the next 18 months to build and upgrade the bulk water infrastructure, especially along the Commando system (Crosby and Brixton) which is always the hardest hit by water shortages.

I am confident that this investment will go a long way in reducing our water supply challenges.

I have instructed Johannesburg Water to provide alternative water relief measures to affected areas through stationary water tanks and mobile tankers.

I further encourage residents to join me in my water management efforts by reporting major bursts and leaks by using Joburg’s SMS Line: +27 (0) 45201.

Issued by the City of Johannesburg