UPDATE: Johannesburg Water restores water to Sunninghill pensioner after months-long struggle
After months without water and nearly a year of billing confusion, 72-year-old Sunninghill resident Daniel Oganah has finally had his supply restored following intervention by Johannesburg Water.
There is relief at last for a Sunninghill pensioner, whose water supply has finally been restored after months of confusion, stress, and unanswered questions surrounding a disputed meter installation.
Daniel Oganah (72) confirmed that water was reconnected at his home on December 22. “The water was reconnected at 16:49 today. I don’t know what is going on, but I shall wait to see if the status will hold up for the next few days. Phew! is all that I can say for now.”
Read more: JW confirms investigation into Sunninghill meter dispute
Oganah’s ordeal began on September 1, 2024, when Johannesburg Water (JW) officials removed his existing water meter and replaced it with a smart meter, a change he says he never requested or authorised. Believing it to be part of a routine system upgrade, he initially raised no concerns. However, in the months that followed, Oganah says he did not receive any water bills. Despite this, he was issued with a pre-termination notice in December 2024.
He made several trips to JW offices, where he was told the matter would be investigated.
Also read: JW repairs Mulbarton and Riverside roads leaks
Two months ago, the situation escalated when his taps ran dry. On inspection, Oganah discovered that his water meter had been removed entirely, leaving him without supply.
He later received a notice, dated August 11, warning of a water supply interruption, even though the meter had already been taken out.
The pensioner said the prolonged disruption and lack of clear communication took a serious toll on his health and well-being, forcing him to rely on neighbours and bottled water for daily use.
JW previously stated that a disconnection was carried out under instruction from the City of Johannesburg due to an outstanding account, while indicating that the matter was under investigation.
Following sustained follow-ups, Oganah’s water has now been restored. He says he hopes the issue has finally been resolved and that his supply will remain stable in the days ahead.
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