Water shortages persist in various areas of Johannesburg, prompting scrutiny over the city’s infrastructure and management practices. Experts attribute the ongoing crisis to the aging infrastructure and financial mismanagement within Johannesburg.

With taps running dry in parts of the city, residents are left questioning the root cause of the water issues. The consensus among experts is that the deteriorating infrastructure and a lack of efficient fund allocation are major contributors to the problem.

Authorities are urging residents to conserve water as the strain on the supply system intensifies due to soaring demand. Craig Sheridan, a representative from Wits University’s School of Geography, Archaeology, and Environmental Studies, discussed the issue with eNCA. According to Sheridan, the aging infrastructure coupled with inadequate maintenance efforts has led to significant leaks and inefficiencies in the water distribution system.

The situation underscores the urgent need for comprehensive upgrades and better management practices to ensure a reliable and sustainable water supply for Johannesburg’s growing population. As the city grapples with these challenges, it becomes increasingly evident that concerted efforts are required to address both the immediate concerns and the long-term sustainability of its water infrastructure.

WATCH | Ageing infrastructure and leaks blamed for water crisis – eNCA