Non-Revenue Water (NRW) in eThekwini, has decreased by 2,9 percent for the quarter ending at the end of September, when compared to the same period last year.
The close monitoring of NRW, is part of the City’s turnaround strategy to reduce water losses, in the management of water and sanitation.
Speaking to media on Sunday, Cyril Xaba, the Mayor of eThekwini, said this current reduction is part of several interventions, which include the deployment of plumbers to reservoir zones with high water loss, the maintenance and installation of meters and industrial commercial and institutional meter upgrades.
“I am pleased to also report that the number of reported water leaks and pipe bursts have been reduced from over 9 000 in June 2025 to below 979 currently” said Xaba.
He said bulk water reservoirs are also stable, with others operating at full capacity for the first time in five years.
In addition, the recruitment of the first 31 plumbers is well underway.
Concerning the quality of water in recreational spots, he said 21 of 23 bathing beaches, are open and safe for swimming.
Xaba also said there are now 12 to 43, jetting machines, to enable teams to respond effectively to sewer blockages and spillages.
But challenges to the plan, include theft, vandalism and misuse of infrastructure, such as clogging up the system with objects.
This includes some restaurants not managing fat traps properly.
Picture: Supplied