All administrative offices, libraries, selected rates halls and pay-points will be closed from 13:00 on December 22 and will re-open on January 02.

The municipality has however confirmed that emergency and essential services such as refuse collection, electricity and water services will not be affected by the recess.

“Time off during the Christmas holidays is the best opportunity to afford employees to spend times with their families, especially those who wish to travel to their respective home towns during this season,” Ekurhuleni spokesperson Themba Gadebe said.

He reminded residents to pay their municipal accounts on time and utilise facilities such as the www.e-siyakhokha.co.za online platform.

The following numbers can be used in case of emergencies:

Life Threatening Emergency Line – 011 458- 0911 or 10177 – 112 from mobile phones

Municipal Services Call Centre – 0860 543 000