Councillors inspect Hursthill 1 and 2 reservoirs amidst continuing water shortages
As Johannesburg deals with the ongoing water shortages, Ward 87 and 69 councillors inspected the bypassed Hursthill reservoirs. With residents voicing their concerns, councillors are pushing for urgent infrastructure improvements, which, according to JW are on the way.
Ward 87 councillor Kyle Jacobs and Ward 69 councillor Genevieve Sherman recently conducted an inspection of the empty and bypassed Hursthill 1 and 2 reservoirs, shedding light on the significant challenges facing the area’s water supply.
Jacobs described the experience as ‘interesting’ yet ‘eye-opening’, emphasising the urgent need for action to address the issues at the Hursthill reservoir. During their visit, Jacobs noted that one of the reservoirs was completely bypassed and had no water flowing inside.
Read more: Looming challenges for Brixton Reservoir
“We went inside the reservoir and walked around,” he explained, highlighting the stark reality of the situation. Residents also joined the councillors to voice their concerns regarding the ongoing water crisis affecting their community. Jacobs reported that he had been in contact with Johannesburg Water (JW) regarding the water issues in Brixton.
“So far, they have addressed some concerns, and it seems like the reservoir is fair now, but until that project is completed and supplying water, we suspect that these issues will occur in the future,” he stated.
Accompanied by JW officials, Jacobs inspected the inlet pipe where water is supposed to enter the reservoir, only to find it completely dry. He pointed out visible cracks on the floor of the reservoir, which are causing leaks and rendering it obsolete.
“That is why they are bypassing it and redirecting water directly to the residents,” he explained.
Also read: Johannesburg Water gives a glimpse into the new Brixton reservoir and tower construction project
According to Jacobs, there is a plan in place for rehabilitation of Hursthill 1 and 2, which includes the construction of a new pump station to improve water supply. The tender for this project is set to close in November, with construction expected to begin in February next year. “We are trying to push them to start, as this is a pressing issue,” he added, noting that Hursthill 2 also supplies other parts of the ward that experience constant water shortages.
Jacobs emphasised the need for a solid plan to ensure residents have a reliable water supply. JW spokesperson Nombuso Shabalala, confirmed that the upgrades at the Hursthill reservoirs are part of the larger Commando System upgrades programme. This system includes the Crosby, Hursthill, and Brixton reservoir and tower complexes.
“The Commando System project is a key component of Johannesburg Water’s ongoing Water Conservation and Water Demand Management (WCWDM) programme, aimed at addressing the urgent need for a continuous and sustainable water supply while reducing strain on Johannesburg’s water supply networks.”
As the community continues to endure the water shortages, the commitment from local officials to address these issues signals a proactive approach to ensuring a reliable water supply for residents.
Follow us on our Facebook, X, Instagram, and TikTok pages. Join our WhatsApp group for any story ideas you may have.
Related article: Joburg Water links Hursthill 1 and Northcliff reservoirs
