Johannesburg Water recently unveiled a R90 million reservoir in Orange Farm, South of Johannesburg.

According to the utility the 33.5 mega litre concrete reservoir was constructed to supplement water supply to the Orange Farm South Water District and reduce disruptions to high-lying areas in the region.

The reservoir, which was constructed over 2 months, has added additional capacity that has increased water storage from nine hours to 27 hours, according to Ntshavheni Mukwevho, Joburg Water’s Managing Director.

The project employed 64 skilled professionals and an additional 14 semi-skilled labourers, from around Orange Farm and surrounds were hired.

Addressing the backlog

Speaking at the official launch of the reservoir, Nico de Jager, MMC for Environment and Infrastructure Services, said the project formed part of the city’s bid to improve and renew ageing infrastructure.

De Jager added that the city’s infrastructure backlog was sitting at R13 billion. “Unfortunately, theft of water infrastructure takes money from our plan to repair and renew. About 4 000 brass water meters were stolen during the 2016-2017 financial year.”

He further mentioned that the City has set aside R1.9 billion towards upgrading Joburg’s 181 informal settlements. “Fifty one informal settlements are to receive upgrades to water and sanitation, access roads, street names and electricity.”