Johannesburg Water (JW) has installed two new air valves in Douglasdale, as the city attempts to tackle recurring pipe bursts and water outages that have plagued residents for months.

The first air valve was installed on Columbus Crescent, followed by a second on Crawford Drive, according to Ward 106 councillor Chris Santana.

Read more: Councillor says silence from Johannesburg Water forced Douglasdale meeting

The installations follow a tense community meeting between JW officials and residents, where the utility said air valves would form part of its pressure-management intervention in the area.

Santana confirmed the completion of both installations, saying the work was part of the measures residents had been told would be implemented to help address the ongoing water challenges.

The air valves are intended to assist with managing air within the water network, which can affect pressure and contribute to operational challenges.

JW officials, during the community meeting, told residents that the installation programme would continue through September.

Also read: Johannesburg Water faces angry Douglasdale residents over water crisis

The intervention comes amid growing pressure on the city to find a lasting solution to Douglasdale’s recurring water outages and pipe failures.

However, Santana said he was disappointed that the latest intervention had not stopped the problem.

“While I welcome the installation of the two air valves, I am disappointed that we have already had two further pipe bursts after the installation.”

He said the continued failures are a concern for residents who have endured repeated interruptions to their water supply.

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