Phumlamqashi residents accuse Joburg Water of cutting supply without warning

 JOHANNESBURG - Phumlamqashi residents in Lenasia, south of Johannesburg, have accused Joburg Water of cutting their supply without warning. 

The residents clashed with Johannesburg Metropolitan Police Department (JMPD) and police officers on Tuesday as tensions escalated over the water cut-off operation.  

Angry protesters began throwing rocks at police, who then fired rubber bullets to disperse the crowd.  

The Golden Highway was blocked off to peak hour traffic as the standoff unfolded, interrupting Joburg Water’s operation.

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Despite this, the illegal connection was eventually cut. 

Residents, however, have vowed to reconnect the supply, accusing Joburg Water of not providing them with an alternative water source. 

A community member who did not want to be named said the situation would have been more acceptable if Jojo tanks had been provided.

"And then they can just continue with their operation, we wouldn’t mind but then if they come to our area and just cut and leave our people without water is a problem," said the resident.

In response, Joburg Water said it's working on a plan for a way forward.