Gauteng water supply reservoir levels rise to 47%

The Gauteng Provincial Government coordinated efforts to stabilise and strengthen water supply systems across the province, amid ongoing challenges that have left some communities experiencing intermittent water supply.

In a statement, the provincial government – working closely with Rand Water and municipalities – acknowledged the frustration faced by residents in recent weeks, emphasising that water remains a basic right and essential service.

“As of Wednesday, 04 March, Rand Water’s total reservoir storage stands at 47,0%, reflecting an improvement from the previous day’s level of 43,4%. This increase signifies a gradual improvement in the overall water storage of the Rand Water system. While some systems have experienced temporary declines due to exceptionally high-water withdrawals by municipalities. Rand Water will continue to monitor consumption patterns and reservoir levels closely,” reads the statement.

In the City of Johannesburg, water systems in certain parts of the metro remain under pressure, but recovery interventions are ongoing. “We welcome the successful commissioning of the new 26-megalitre Brixton Reservoir and 2-megalitre tower, which now meet SANS 241 drinking water standards and have been integrated into the distribution network. This milestone strengthens supply resilience in Brixton, Crosby, Hursthill, Melville, Emmarentia and surrounding areas. While systems such as Commando, Midrand, Soweto and the Deep South remain under pressure, recovery is underway through network rebalancing, storage optimisation and alternative water supply deployment where required,” Gauteng Government added.

The Gauteng Water Operations Centre continues to operate around the clock to monitor reservoir levels, coordinate system balancing between bulk and local supply, and accelerate leak detection and repair programmes. “We ask residents to partner with us to use water sparingly, report leaks immediately and avoid excessive consumption during peak periods. Every litre saved contributes to system recovery,” concludes the statement.