WATER supply issues due to ageing infrastructure have been an ongoing problem across the eThekwini Metropolitan in recent years and despite the City saying it has reduced the number of water faults, leaks and bursts continue to occur.

In Durban North, roads like Umhlanga Rocks Drive, Kenneth Kaunda Drive and Acutt Avenue have seen their fair share of leaks and bursts, leading to thousands of rands worth of damage to infrastructure, and in some cases, residents’ homes.

Durban North resident Sam Reddy has called for a complete overhaul of the system on roads with recurring bursts.

“On Acutt Avenue alone there are three leaks in close proximity. The simple truth is Durban North needs new infrastructure. Main feeder lines have not been upgraded and water infrastructure is not being maintained. When a burst occurs there is a join from asbestos to PVC. The issue is the couplings or joins can’t handle the pressure, leading to problems down the line.

“We also had a major incident on Umhlanga Rocks Drive where a resident had litres of water pouring through his property. We are only repairing piece by piece when we need an overhaul of the entire system, which means we can secure our infrastructure and water supply. Of course we don’t expect every road, but the main feeder lines and problematic roads, because right now we are putting a band aid over a gaping wound,” he said.

Meanwhile the City say they have made significant progress in stabilising the City’s water supply and curbing overall losses.

According to statistics the City loses more than 50% of the potable water it purchases from its supplier.

In a statement last week the City said it had slashed water leaks by 70%, reducing reported faults across the City from 13 000 in July 2026 to 3900.

In addition the City said it has reduced non-revenue water produced, but lost through leaks, bursts, theft, and illegal connections, from 58% to 55%.

According to Durban Mayor Cyril Xaba, the City’s target is to reduce non-revenue water to below 50% before the end of the year.

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