'Most systems within Midrand still struggling': Joburg Water

Several Midrand residents began another day with dry taps as the area’s water crisis continues.

Disruptions began on 21 January, triggered by a power failure at Rand Water’s Zuikerbosch treatment plant, which further affected the Eikenhof and Zwartkoppies supply systems.

A subsequent pipe burst followed, affecting one of the largest reservoirs, Palmiet, which supplies parts of Johannesburg and Tshwane.   

Johannesburg Water operations manager Gugulethu Quma said gradual restoration began on Tuesday, but pressure remains low. 

“Most of the systems within Midrand are still struggling, battling to receive water because of a general high demand as we stabilise the system. The restoration process will be different for all; it will take us approximately three days to stabilise the entire system.”

RELATED: Water tankers dispatched to parts of Midrand with dry taps, says Morero

Quma said there has been a significant increase in water demand in Midrand, a consequence of rapid development in the area. 

He explained that Johannesburg Water is working to address its infrastructure backlog through public/private partnerships. 

This includes the construction of additional reservoirs and towers.

“If you look at the value chain of our water, starting from our bulk supplier (Rand Water), the sheer size of what we are talking about, as far as the power trips, makes it difficult to bring those systems back. Starting up takes time, and you can’t immediately ramp those systems up to full speed,” he said. 

To listen to Quma in conversation with 947’s Anele and The Club, use the audio player below: