CoE warns of looming water crisis amid declining storage levels
"Ward 92 is made up of numerous high-lying areas, many of which can go days without water as the Korhaan water tower, which is riddled with leaks, is on the verge of collapse," said Guerreiro.
Gauteng is facing a significant water crisis as storage levels drop across the province, largely because of excessive withdrawals by municipalities.
Rand Water repeatedly warned local governments about the issue, urging action to prevent further decline.
The City of Ekurhuleni (CoE), in collaboration with Rand Water, has introduced Level 1 water restrictions to curb consumption.
ALSO READ: Germiston residents experience water supply shortage
Ward 92 Clr Kade Guerreiro identified the main contributing factors to the shortage as low rainfall, declining Vaal Dam levels, and a deteriorating water network.
“The city needs to prioritise expanding water storage and repairing the ageing infrastructure,” Guerreiro said, pointing to leaks at the Korhaan water tower, kept at only 40% capacity because of its condition.
Despite assurances from Water and Sanitation MMC Thembi Msane that the CoE will rebuild the tower in the next financial year, Guerreiro expressed doubts about the plan’s feasibility.
“We are urging residents to follow water-saving measures communicated by Rand Water and the city,” he added, citing common household water wastage from burst pipes and leaking valves.
To conserve water, he advised residents to take showers instead of baths, reuse grey water for gardening, and avoid topping up swimming pools.
ALSO READ: City urges for water conservation as major maintenance approaches
The CoE also issued guidelines against watering gardens, filling pools, or washing cars. Those unable to afford plumbing repairs may seek assistance through the city.
Rand Water emphasised the need for municipalities to address water losses, fix leaks, enforce by-laws, and eliminate illegal connections.
As a bulk supplier, Rand Water does not distribute water to consumers, leaving municipalities responsible for handling shortages and service disruptions.
CoE spokesperson Zweli Dlamini said the city is actively working with stakeholders, including the national Department of Water and Sanitation, to manage the situation.
“We are conducting joint campaigns and sharing technical expertise to educate the public about water conservation,“ he stated.
The city has also launched a ‘war on water leaks’ initiative to speed up repairs.
Dlamini called for collaboration rather than blame-shifting among stakeholders, noting regular virtual meetings are held to address the crisis.
ALSO READ: City urges locals to use water wisely
“Water is essential for survival, and we must work together to navigate this unprecedented challenge,” he said.
Residents can report water-related issues through the MyCoE App, the city’s call centre, or by contacting the EMPD to report by-law violations.
Further water-saving tips and updates are on the city and Rand Water’s online platforms.
