Residents in Melrose, Waverley, Illovo, Abbotsford, Kentview, Birdhaven, Orchards, and surrounding areas are once again facing water disruptions, after a pipe in Houghton re-burst at the same site where repairs were already under way.

The renewed failure follows an earlier burst, and prompted complaints from residents on Tuesday morning that no repair teams were visible. Johannesburg Water management later visited the site to ensure that teams were deployed.

Ward 74 councillor Belinda Kayser-Echeozonjoku said the situation was disappointing and reflective of deeper infrastructure challenges. She noted that a similar major burst occurred over the Christmas period, raising concerns about the impact of ageing pipes amid continued development in the area.

Read more: Johannesburg Water responds to a flooding pipe in Rose Street 

Johannesburg Water confirmed that the burst was caused by an old pipe. An emergency clamp was initially installed but failed to hold, resulting in the re-burst.

A full section of the pipe is now being replaced, with work having started yesterday and continuing today. The utility has also submitted a request to replace the entire pipe length to prevent future failures.

In the meantime, mitigation measures are in place. Water tankers have been dispatched, including one to Wanderers Stadium ahead of a scheduled match, with more to follow. However, Johannesburg Water has warned that draining the line is a lengthy process and that no timeframe can yet be given for full restoration.

@caxtonjoburgnorth A pipe re-burst in Houghton, leaves residents without water in the northern suburbs. Video: Supplied #caxtonlocalmedia #News #Localnews #Fyp #Community #servicedelivery #Joburgwater #Rosebank ♬ original sound – Caxton Joburg North

Residents have been advised that updates will be shared as more information becomes available.

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