Water Crisis: 28 Gauteng Water Reservoirs Critically Low
Johannesburg is facing a severe water crisis, with 28 out of 61 reservoirs and towers now at critically low levels or completely dry. The water crisis, which has affected over 350 areas, is worsening due to infrastructure challenges, power failures, and high demand.
According to the latest system status report by Johannesburg Water, the situation has been exacerbated by a power failure in Emfuleni, which has disrupted pumping from Rand Water’s Forest Hill and Eikenhof systems. Residents in affected areas are experiencing reduced water pressure or, in some cases, a complete loss of supply.
Critical Reservoirs at Risk
The latest analysis shows that out of all monitored water reservoirs and towers in Johannesburg, the current status is as follows:
- 28 reservoirs and towers are critically low (red)
- 24 are at fair levels (yellow)
- 9 remain stable (green)
Some of the most severely affected reservoirs include:
Deep South Systems:
- Zondi Reservoir (Bypass)
- Jabulani Tower (Bypass)
- Power Park Reservoirs
- Protea Glen Reservoir
- Lenasia Cosmos Reservoir (Bypass)
Central and Soweto Systems:
- Constantia Reservoir
- Helderkruin Reservoir
- Aeroton Reservoir & Tower
- Berea Reservoir
- Crown Gardens Reservoir
- Yeoville Reservoir
- Parktown 2 Reservoir
- Hector Norris
- Eagle Nest Reservoir
- Alexander Park Reservoir
- Forest Hill Tower
- South Hills Tower
Commando System:
- Crosby Reservoir
- Brixton Reservoir & Tower
- Hursthill 1 Reservoir (Bypass)
- Hursthill 2 Reservoir
Randburg System:
- Linden 1 & 2 Reservoirs
- Waterval Tower
- Kensington B Reservoir & Tower
Why is Johannesburg Running Out of Water?
Johannesburg Water has confirmed that the crisis is due to demand exceeding supply, a problem worsened by power failures affecting pumping stations. The Emfuleni power failure has further restricted water distribution from major supply points, including Rand Water’s Forest Hill and Eikenhof systems.
Another significant challenge is Johannesburg’s ageing water infrastructure, which has made it difficult to manage water pressure effectively. Despite Level 1 water restrictions and additional water supply reductions since November 8, 2024, the situation continues to deteriorate.
DA Calls for Urgent Intervention
The Democratic Alliance (DA) has raised serious concerns about the ongoing crisis, calling for immediate action from the government. According to Nico de Jager, DA Gauteng Shadow MEC for Infrastructure Development, the blame game between Rand Water, Eskom, and City Power must stop.
“The constant blame-shifting must end. What residents need is decisive action and proper contingency planning,” said De Jager.
The DA has proposed three key solutions to address the water crisis:
- Independent power supply for pump stations – Using solar and battery systems to ensure uninterrupted water supply.
- Upgrading ageing infrastructure – Introducing smart pressure management systems to optimize water flow.
- Establishing a rapid response unit – A dedicated team to handle water infrastructure emergencies and prevent prolonged outages.
DA Urges Minister of Infrastructure to Act
In an effort to push for urgent action, the DA has written to Dean Macpherson, Minister for Infrastructure, requesting the inclusion of Gauteng municipalities in an infrastructure support programme. The party has also called on the Gauteng Provincial Government to declare a state of emergency to fast-track interventions.
“The situation demands more than crisis management; it requires a complete overhaul of how our water infrastructure is managed and maintained,” said De Jager.
What Can Residents Do?
With Johannesburg under Level 1 water restrictions, residents are urged to:
💧 Reduce water usage by taking shorter showers and avoiding unnecessary water consumption.
🚱 Limit outdoor water use, such as watering gardens and washing cars.
🔧 Report leaks and water wastage to Johannesburg Water to prevent further losses.
Johannesburg Water has assured residents that they are monitoring the situation closely and will provide updates as they become available. However, with no immediate solution in sight, the city may continue to face severe water shortages in the coming weeks.
