Johannesburg Water is experiencing significant strain on its water supply systems due to high consumption. This increased demand is placing pressure on the bulk water supply
system and affecting the ability of reservoirs and towers to maintain sufficient storage.

Over the past few weeks as temperatures soared, the City of Johannesburg has continued to experience week-on-week high water consumption. Residents and businesses are urgently requested to reduce consumption, avoid using drinking water for non-essential activities and comply with the Level 1 water restrictions currently in effect.

These include:

• No watering of gardens between 06:00 and 18:00.
• No filling of swimming pools between 06:00 and 18:00.
• Washing cars with a bucket instead of a hose pipe.
• No washing of paved areas and driveways using hosepipes.

To prevent further strain and reduce the risk of a system collapse and prolonged supply interruptions, Johannesburg Water will implement water conservation and water demand management interventions. These will include targeted water supply restrictions in areas with high water losses, excessive wastage and low payment levels.

The City of Johannesburg will also intensify by-law enforcement in areas with illegal water connections to curb unauthorised consumption, reduce losses and protect water infrastructure.

These interventions aim to stabilise the system, support reservoir recovery and preserve water for essential needs. Johannesburg Water will convene a meeting with ward councillors today, to discuss the applicable restrictions and implementation arrangements. Residents in affected areas will be informed in coordination with their ward councillors and through Johannesburg Water’s social media platforms.

Water security is a shared responsibility. While Johannesburg Water works to improve the performance and resilience of the system, management of physical losses on the municipal infrastructure, residents can support these efforts by using water responsibly and complying with the restrictions, reporting illegal use of water and reporting of leaks and bursts on the various platforms available.