411
Lenasia South Residents Plan Highway Shutdown Over Water Crisis
Residents of Lenasia South are preparing to shut down the Golden Highway on 3 March 2025 as frustration mounts over ongoing water shortages. The planned protest, spearheaded by residents of the Phumlamqashi informal settlement, threatens to disrupt operations on all roads in the area, including Sheffield Road in Lenasia South.
LAW ENFORCEMENT ON ALERT
Ward councillor Puseletso Celestina Nzimande confirmed that Johannesburg Metro Police Department (JMPD) officials are aware of the planned shutdown. Authorities, including intelligence units, will be monitoring the situation closely.
“The government is aware, and they know how to put safety measures [into place]… They have the right to march, but they must not disturb the people who are going to work,” Nzimande stated.
FAILING WATER SUPPLY SYSTEM
Residents have long struggled with an inconsistent water supply, with the Lenasia South reservoir failing to cope with demand. Illegal water connections have worsened the situation, according to city officials. Johannesburg Water had introduced a rotational water supply schedule, cutting water from 1 pm to 5 pm daily. However, many residents have reported that supply is often not restored as promised.
“After last week’s maintenance, the situation has only worsened. Now, there is no water in our area,” Nzimande added.
RESIDENTS DEMAND ACTION
A major source of tension is the issue of illegal water connections, which some argue are responsible for the worsening crisis. While city officials disconnected these connections to conserve supply, Phumlamqashi residents now demand that they be restored.
City officials attempted to provide relief through water tankers and JoJo tanks, but residents rejected this temporary solution.
“They don’t want JoJo tanks. The truck from Joburg Water started bringing water in from 5 o’clock in the morning until the evening, but still, they are not satisfied,” Nzimande said.
With tensions rising and authorities bracing for disruptions, the planned shutdown underscores the severity of Johannesburg’s water crisis and the growing frustration among affected communities.
Follow Joburg ETC on Facebook, Twitter , TikTok and Instagram
For more News in Johannesburg, visit joburgetc.com
