Protesting Westbury residents demand permanent solution to their water supply woes

JOHANNESBURG - Residents in Westbury are calling for a permanent solution to the water crisis they’ve been facing.

The area has had no water supply for weeks.

Angry residents are protesting and have blocked roads with rocks and burning tyres.

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Residents in Westbury said their water-related issues were not new, with some saying it’s been years since they’ve had a regular supply of water.

The area, and nearby communities including Westdene and Claremont, have had to contend with water supply cuts in recent weeks.

One resident, Walter van der Merwe, said they had no choice but to take to the streets to get the attention of Joburg Water.

"They promised us a week ago to say they're going to try and get water to us, they going to try make a plan to get water to us. It was brought back for one day, then we have been without water for nine days."

The Johannesburg Metro Police Department has urged motorists to avoid the Westbury area.

JMPD spokesperson Xolani Fihla said: "The road closures have affected several routes such as Feul, Harmony, Perth, Main Road and Portland Avenue. Law enforcement officials have been deployed; motorists are further urged to exercise caution."

There is a heavy police presence in the area and a police helicopter monitoring the scene.