As Johannesburg suburbs endure the extensive maintenance programme initiated by Rand Water, criticism has emerged concerning the poor communication from Johannesburg Water and Rand Water.
The maintenance, which began on June 22 and is set to continue until July 29, affects several systems, including the Zwartkopjes, Eikenhof, and Daleside stations.
The Zwartkopjes station feeds the Crown Gardens and Eagles Nest reservoirs, while the Daleside station supplies the Orange Farm, Ennerdale, and Lawley reservoirs.
Eikenhof, which has been operating at reduced capacity since June 24, impacts Soweto, Randburg/Roodepoort, Commando, Lenasia, and parts of Johannesburg Central.
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Although pumping operations at Zwartkopjes have resumed at full capacity, recovery remains slow for Crown Gardens and Eagles Nest. Meanwhile, Eikenhof operates at 67% capacity, expected to increase to 83% by July 13.
Local residents and leaders have expressed frustration over the water cuts and the perceived inadequate communication. Michael Thompson of the Frederic Place Home for the Aged in Coronationville highlighted the exacerbated water issues, emphasizing the vulnerability of elderly residents.
Similarly, Ward 88 Councillor Nicolene Jonker criticized the misleading communications about water availability, pushing for clearer updates from Rand Water and Johannesburg Water.
Efforts to mitigate the impact include the deployment of water tankers and the installation of JoJo tanks in affected areas. Despite these measures, many suburbs, such as Northriding, Olivedale, and Sharonlea in Ward 101, continue to face severe water shortages.
Councillors like Ralf Bittkau and Nicole van Dyk stress the necessity for improved communication to manage public expectations and ensure timely updates.
As work continues at the affected stations, residents are urged to remain patient and conserve water where possible. The gradual improvements anticipated in the coming days will be critical for restoring normalcy to the affected suburbs.
