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Johannesburg’s Water Crisis: Why Residents Need to Act Now
Johannesburg is facing a severe water crisis. Ongoing drought, high temperatures, and an aging infrastructure strain the city’s water supply. Mayor Dada Morero and Johannesburg Water’s Managing Director, Ntshavheni Mukwevho, recently spoke about the urgent need for residents to use less water.
Why Johannesburg Is in a Water Crisis
During a press briefing at Brixton’s new reservoir construction site, Morero explained that water demand now exceeds what’s sustainable. The city currently has only 40% of its ideal water storage, well below the 60% needed to maintain a steady supply.
Mukwevho urged residents to help cut daily water use. Currently, the city receives 1,700 megaliters (ML) per day from Rand Water, but it needs to reduce that to 1,500 ML per day—a decrease of 200 ML—to maintain balance. Without a change, more severe restrictions may be needed.
Key Causes of the Water Crisis
Johannesburg’s water issues come from several sources:
- Drought and Climate Change: Low rainfall and high temperatures lower available water.
- Non-Revenue Water: Water losses occur from leaks, illegal connections, and waste.
- Aging Infrastructure: Many parts of the water system need urgent repair.
The City’s Plan to Address the Water Crisis
Morero and Mukwevho outlined a strategy to cut water use and fix infrastructure issues. This plan includes:
- Repairing Leaks: Detecting and fixing leaks in reservoirs and towers.
- Upgrading Systems: Replacing water meters, valves, and inefficient devices.
- Improving By-Law Enforcement: Cutting off illegal connections and wasteful usage.
- Replacing Pipes and Meters: Upgrading both residential and large consumer meters.
Mukwevho shared that these measures could reduce water demand by 37,123 ML each year, helping stabilize Johannesburg’s water supply.
Funding Challenges for Infrastructure Repairs
The city faces an R26 billion backlog for infrastructure repairs. An additional R11 billion is needed for new water projects. While some funds come from provincial and national treasuries, Johannesburg will need grants and loans to meet all funding needs.
Morero stated that funding delays cause infrastructure issues to worsen, and the city is working to improve water billing systems and reduce non-revenue water losses.
Water Conservation Campaign: “Vikela Amanzi”
Mayor Morero reminded residents that level 1 water restrictions remain active. These restrictions limit using hosepipes for gardens, washing cars, and filling pools. Morero also launched Vikela Amanzi (“Protect Our Tomorrow”), a new campaign urging residents and businesses to cut water use.
“Vikela Amanzi” aims to educate people about water conservation and encourage everyone to act to protect Johannesburg’s water resources.
How Residents Can Help Save Water
To conserve water, residents can:
- Limit Outdoor Watering: Use watering cans instead of hosepipes, and water only early or late in the day.
- Fix Leaks Promptly: Report leaks to Johannesburg Water, and repair any household leaks right away.
- Install Water-Saving Devices: Consider low-flow taps and showerheads to save water at home.
- Reuse Water: Use greywater from baths or washing machines for gardens.
A United Effort to Secure Water for the Future
Johannesburg’s water crisis calls for community action. By following water restrictions, fixing leaks, and reducing water use, everyone can help protect this vital resource. Mayor Morero’s message is clear: conserving water today will help secure a stable future for Johannesburg.
