Follow up: Johannesburg Water responds to Wynberg crisis with plans for immediate repairs
After weeks of back-and-forth, Johannesburg Water provided an update on the burst pipe situation on Wynberg’s 5th Street, outlining plans for repair and reinstatement.
An ongoing infrastructure crisis on Wynberg’s 5th Street has left local businesses grappling with up to a 40% decline in monthly turnover.
After several back-and-forth exchanges with Johannesburg Water (JW) regarding their responsibility in resolving the crisis, JW initially stated that the questions raised were allegations that required proof. They later mentioned that they were investigating these allegations and would get back to us.
On February 19, we asked them for an update on when we would be receiving answers from their investigation.
Also read: Pipe burst fallout leaves businesses in limbo
The spokesperson for JW, Nombuso Shabalala, did not directly respond to the question about the investigation but provided a comprehensive reply instead.
She added that the city remains committed to ensuring responsible financial management and maintaining essential infrastructure for residents. “At times, certain matters require thorough investigation, including third-party costs, to ensure that public funds are safeguarded and that all repairs and services are carried out efficiently and cost-effectively.”
She elaborated that, on 5th Street, Wynberg, a burst occurred on a 400mm pipe located beneath a storm water culvert pipe. During the process of exposing the burst pipe, the storm water culvert was inadvertently damaged.
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Shabalala pointed out that, as a result, the necessary storm water repairs and tar reinstatement were referred to Johannesburg Roads Agency (JRA). JRA assessed the required work, and submitted the job, which has been approved, and a purchase order (PO) was issued to proceed with the repairs.
“To ensure progress, a site meeting has been scheduled for tomorrow morning [February 20] with JRA and the appointed contractor as they prepare to commence repairs and reinstatement. We are committed to resolving the issue efficiently and appreciate the patience and understanding of the community as we work to restore the affected infrastructure.”
Read more: Sandton residents endure sewage nightmare as Joburg Water delays repair
She concluded by stating that they will continue to monitor the process closely to ensure that all work is completed to the required standards.
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