No indication Joburg's taps will run dry over Christmas, assures Mayor Morero

JOHANNESBURG - As water challenges persist in the City of Joburg,  Mayor Dada Morero says there are no indications the metro will experience day zero.

This is despite Rand Water's warning that Gauteng residents could spend Christmas with dry taps due to increased water demand.

The City of Joburg uses the most water in Gauteng, consuming more than the City of  Tshwane and the City of Ekurhuleni combined.

Speaking at a media briefing in Joburg on Wednesday, Morero said the city is doing all it can to keep taps running.

“Where we are we are not predicting any day zero but if it comes to day zero, we will communicate in time. That is why we have started an awareness programme. Conserve water, use water sparingly so that we don’t even get to the threat of day zero.”

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CITY OF JOBURG CONSTRUCTS NEW RESERVOIR

Meanwhile, the City of Joburg is constructing a new reservoir in Brixton to address the water demand.

The 27,000 megalitre reservoir will supply communities in Region B of Joburg, including Auckland Park, parts of Sandton, and Randburg.

Morero said the reservoir would alleviate pressure on Joburg Water's systems, which are under immense pressure.

"We will be able to deal with the water crisis once and for all in this area in terms of supply. So by next year April, we will be delivering this water reservoir. We are calling on our residents to conserve water because it's the biggest campaign that we want to be involved in."

This comes as level 1 water restrictions have been imposed across all municipalities in Gauteng.

Morero added stricter restrictions could be introduced if water consumption increases.