Johannesburg South residents have been without water for nearly two weeks, and the situation is expected to worsen as a strike involving Johannesburg Water employees continues.

Councillor Tyrell Meyers warned that ongoing industrial action is placing immense strain on critical services across the city.

Unprotected strike declared by SAMWU

Spokesperson for Johannesburg Water, Nondumiso Mabuza, confirmed that the strike, organised by the South African Municipal Workers’ Union (SAMWU), began on Friday, February 6, following an approved general meeting.

“The action was undertaken without following the legally required procedures and is therefore deemed unprotected in terms of applicable labour legislation. SAMWU is aware that the strike is unprotected, and continued participation is on a no-work-no-pay basis,” Mabuza said.

Johannesburg Water is engaging the matter through formal labour relations channels to address grievances in a structured, lawful manner.

City faces service delivery strain

Mabuza acknowledged the impact of the strike on residents, businesses, and communities.

“It is regrettable that this action is taking place at a time when the City is experiencing a significant water supply crisis, placing additional strain on critical service delivery and operational stability. Johannesburg Water apologises for the inconvenience caused and appreciates the patience and understanding shown by residents, businesses, and community stakeholders during this period,” she said.

As a precaution, Johannesburg Water has implemented contingency measures, including the use of approved contractors to minimise disruptions and maintain essential services. Residents are urged to remain patient while the matter is resolved.

Ward 23 Councillor speaks out

Councillor Tyrell Meyers said the strike has caused major disruptions across Johannesburg depots.

@dajohannesburg 🚱 The DA has reliably learned of a go-slow by Joburg Water employees, severely affecting water repairs across the city. This comes as areas such as Midrand and Selby continue to endure repeated water outages. The DA will continue to closely monitor the situation and will keep residents informed once Joburg Water is fully operational on the ground. #NoDryTapsJoburg #Zille4Mayor #BelieveInJoburg ♬ original sound – DA Joburg Caucus

“We have reliably learned that on February 9, workers across various depots downed tools. In some areas, garbage collections have also been affected. This is a result of unresolved grievances between management and workers. It is a developing story, and we will keep residents updated,” he said.

Meyers warned of the direct impact on water and sewage services, with some areas reporting issues with water tankers and burst pipes.

“This comes at a time when Midrand, Melbourne and surrounds, Bissette North Valley and surrounds, South Hills, Crown Gardens and surrounds have already been struggling without water for almost two weeks. This cannot continue,” he said.

System updates from Johannesburg Water

As of 10:00 this morning, Johannesburg Water reported the following updates:

• Crown Gardens Reservoir: Low level; outlet closed to build capacity
• Crown Gardens Tower: Not pumping due to low reservoir level
• Forest Hill Tower: On bypass; supplying fairly
• South Hills Tower: Supplying fairly; intermittent supply expected
• Aeroton Tower: Supply fairly but low
• Kibler Park Reservoir: Supplying fairly

Residents are advised to monitor updates and conserve water where possible while authorities work to restore the normal supply.