Johannesburg Water (Joburg Water) said there is absolutely no chance of running out of water, despite multiple challenges with the Commando supply system.
Communities in parts of Westbury, Sophiatown, Coronationville and surrounding areas, have been in a knot, for weeks now, and took to the streets, this very last week, burning tyres and blocking the main road.
But on Friday morning, Ntshavheni Mukwevho, Johannesburg Water’s Managing Director,said “we have enough potable water coming through the system. However, the demand for water has increased and become higher over the years. That is why we are also appealing to users to please reduce consumption, over and above Johannesburg Water’s own internal efforts to manage demand.”
Mukwevho also said the City of Johannesburg is investing over R600 million into upgrading this system, to avail more water.
The upgrades of the Commando System, will only be completed in December 2026, but the construction of the new Brixton Reservoir and Tower will be ready in October 2025.
But until then, Joburg Water plans to improve water supply by reducing water losses, including the throttling tactic, which decreases the flow and pressure of water supply of the systems, as well as retrofitting smart flow controllers to assist with reducing water losses, refurbishment of pressure reducing valves (PRVs).
Jack Sekwaila, the MMC for Environment and Infrastructure Services, acknowledged the frustration and inconvenience water challenges, “we have also witnessed the protests from various communities, particularly those that continually experience reduced to no water supply. It is imperative to note that the City does not deliberately deny residents water. The challenges occurring in areas struggling with consistent water supply is purely because of technical challenges and no malice on the part of Johannesburg Water.”