Johannesburg Water (JW) has finally begun the much-needed structural repairs on the Hursthill 2 reservoir, after sustained pressure from the local community and leadership in the fight for a sustainable solution in resolving and improving the Commando systems challenges.

An R800m investment was injected to improve the system’s resilience, an announcement previously highlighted during a public meeting at Danie van Zyl Community Hall in Newlands on September 11, where Executive Mayor Dada Morero, MMC Jack Sekwaila, and JW managing director Ntshavheni Mukwevho addressed frustrated residents over the water shortages.

Read more: Water woes may soon end with Hursthill 2 reservoir repairs starting on December 1

Mukwevho noted that ageing infrastructure across the city demands urgent refurbishment, and that weakened upstream systems directly impact supply to downstream suburbs. “To refurbish existing reservoirs, such as Hursthill 1 and 2, requires urgent intervention. We are going to refurbish Hursthill 1, with work expected to be completed by October 2026. For Hursthill 2, we have appointed a contractor.”

JW spokesperson Nombuso Shabalala stated that the project was awarded to a contractor on September 3. “Currently, we are finalising the submission of contractual documentation and appointment of local labourers. Once this has been completed, the contractor will be given access to the site to commence with the work.”

Shabalala confirmed that work will begin from December 1, planned to end on April 9, 2026, based on the programme.

Also read: Promises run dry as Hursthill 2 reservoir repairs are yet to begin

The upgrade for Hursthill 2 will ultimately benefit residents by:

• Improving service delivery,
• Ensuring greater continuity of supply, and
• Reducing water losses.

Ward 87 councillor Kyle Jacobs confirmed that, after persistent engagements, JW has committed to begin the repair works. “This project aims to repair cracks in the reservoir walls and restore it to full operational capacity.”

Jacobs warned that although the work is overdue and essential, the bypass period will inevitably lead to unpredictable supply. “There are no alternative means to augment the system. High-lying areas may face the most strain, but the real impact will only become clear once the bypass is operational.”

Due to the repairs being conducted, Jacobs added that water tankers will be provided only after a water outage has exceeded 24 hours, as their standard policy stipulates. He added that uncertainty will be a major challenge: With no reserve capacity and an overstretched bulk system, predicting outages or recovery times will be extremely difficult.

The Hursthill 2 rehabilitation forms part of a wider upgrade of the entire Commando system, including plans for a new pump station to replace the current gravity-fed setup – a move expected to stabilise supply for years to come. Jacobs said his office will monitor progress closely and issue monthly updates as the project advances.

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