Residents in Kanonierspark North remain concerned about the impact of a major underground water leak after fears were raised that the prolonged water seepage could cause structural damage to nearby homes.

The issue, which is affecting properties behind Eleazer Road near 150 Rissik Street, was brought to the attention of JB Marks Local Municipality by DA Ward 7 Councillor André Klopper after residents reported that water had been leaking into the area for an extended period. Klopper said the municipality had previously excavated the site in an apparent attempt to locate the source of the leak, but the excavation had since filled with water and remained flooded. He added that the saturated ground was placing pressure on boundary walls and could eventually compromise the foundations of neighbouring homes. During his inspection, Klopper also identified an overflowing manhole in front of 150 Rissik Street, which he said required urgent attention.

Municipal spokesperson Jeanette Tshite confirmed that the municipality had investigated the matter and found that water was flowing through a damaged Telkom duct.

“Following an on-site investigation, it was established that water was flowing through a damaged Telkom duct. In an effort to determine the source of the water entering the Telkom infrastructure, the Municipality attempted on several occasions to gain access to the Telkom manhole. Unfortunately, these efforts were unsuccessful, as access could not be secured through the relevant Telkom call centre channels,” she said.

Tshite said further investigations later traced the leak to infrastructure associated with Witrand Hospital, where the water pipeline runs adjacent to the Telkom ducting.

“The Municipality has engaged with officials from Witrand Hospital, and it has been agreed that a joint inspection will be conducted to determine the source and extent of the leak. As an interim measure, the Municipality has excavated a diversion trench to redirect the water away from the boundary wall and minimise the risk of further water ingress into the affected residential property,” she explained.

She added that the JB Marks Local Municipality remains committed to resolving the matter as quickly as possible and will provide a further update once the joint inspection has been completed and the findings have been assessed.