Thabiso Goba11 December 2024 | 4:30

Rand Water warns it could shut down if municipalities don't settle R7.7bn debt

The utility supplies bulk potable water to Gauteng municipalities, including its three metros, and a few other municipalities in North West and Free State.

Rand Water warns it could shut down if municipalities don't settle R7.7bn debt

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JOHANNESBURG - Rand Water has warned it could shut down if municipalities do not settle the R7.7 billion debt owed to it.  

The utility supplies bulk potable water to Gauteng municipalities, including its three metros, and a few other municipalities in North West and Free State.  

ALSO READ: Rand Water says Gauteng municipalities' consumption above the threshold of its licence

On Tuesday, officials from the company made a presentation to the Gauteng councillors’ water imbizo held at Emperors Palace in Kempton Park.  

Rand Water's chief operating officer, Mahlomula Mehlo, said the utility's only source of revenue is the money it charges to municipalities.  

"We are still seeing huge non-payments which are driving our debtors' days in the wrong direction, and we always stress the point that if Rand Water is not paid, Rand Water will close shop. If Rand Water closes shop, there won’t be any water or anybody to complain to about the lack of water supply."