Residents in Ferndale, Fontainebleau, Bryanston, Malanshof, President Ridge, and parts of Blairgowrie and Bordeaux, have been left without water for days as Johannesburg Water (JW) battles to repair a pipe burst at the corner of Pretoria Avenue and Harley Street.

Read more: Boundary Road leak finally fixed after weeks of delays

JW waged war on two major pipes that burst, one on Pretoria Avenue and Harley Street in Ferndale, and one on Nerina Street in Kensington B. Both pipes have been gushing out water for months and have caused further damage to other roads. The repairs started on August 9, with the entity planning to repair a 450mm T-piece in Ferndale and a 300mm steel pipe on Nerina Road. Water was isolated to allow the repairs to be completed. The Nerina pipe was completed on August 10, but, unfortunately, the pipe in Ferndale gave contractors a hard time.

Residents experienced further interruptions to the water supply, with JW reporting that it was caused by a new burst within the chamber in Pretoria. The contractor completed interim repairs, and the site was secured and barricaded. After allowing an hour for the cement to cure, the main trunk line was carefully reopened. A secondary line was also brought back online.

During this controlled recharging process, another new leak was identified on the same line by the operations team. Supply had to be shut off again as a precaution, to allow for inspection and follow-up repairs.

Also read: Councillor slams delay in fixing leak

Ward 102 councillor Lucinda Harman explained that the delays, and repeated bursts, have worsened the crisis. “It’s not acceptable. This massive leak has wasted water for six months, destroying roads, and creating a traffic nightmare. The constant promises and delays, claiming they don’t have the right materials, are unacceptable.”

Water trucks have been dispatched all around the affected areas. It remains unclear when the water is going to be fully restored.
Nombuso Shabalala, JW spokesperson, confirmed that contractors are on-site, busy with the repairs. “There is currently no estimated time for restoration, however, these repairs remain a priority. Alternative water is being arranged for critical institutions. Further updates will be provided.”

The major leak caught the attention of RISE Mzansi ‘s chairperson Vuyiswa Ramokgopa who wrote to Executive Mayor Dada Morero to escalate the matter.

She said that the government should not be reactive, but proactive when it comes to maintenance. “We will keep engaging the mayor’s office for political pressure, but sustainable solutions require new leadership in the council.”

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