Johannesburg’s Water Crisis: How Collapsing Infrastructure Threatens “Day Zero”

Johannesburg’s Water Crisis: Can the City Avoid “Day Zero”?

Johannesburg, South Africa’s financial center, is nearing a water crisis that could lead to “Day Zero”—a point where taps run dry for millions. Years of neglect, population growth, and under-maintenance have strained the city’s aging water system. Without urgent intervention, households, businesses, and the economy will feel the impact.

Picture: Seth Thorne

What’s Driving Joburg’s Water Shortage?

Johannesburg’s water issues stem from several critical factors:

• Aging Infrastructure: The city’s water pipes and reservoirs are outdated and unmaintained.
• Vandalism and Theft: Illegal connections and theft damage pipelines, worsening shortages.
• High Water Loss: About 46% of Johannesburg’s water supply generates no revenue, either leaking or going unbilled, which is nearly double the ideal rate for municipalities.

Professor Anthony Turton of the Centre for Environmental Management compares Johannesburg’s system to a “leaking bucket” that cannot stay full, regardless of how much water is added. This makes it hard to meet demand, despite adequate supply.

Picture: Seth thorne

Joburg Water’s Financial and Operational Struggles

Johannesburg’s water losses amount to R2.4 billion, up R300 million from last year. Though the budget increased, the funds fall short of the estimated R20 billion needed. Cash shortages and a lack of skilled personnel lead to frequent delays in repairs, aggravating shortages.

Belinda Kayser-Echeozonjoku, DA Joburg Caucus Leader: “Joburg Water requested R3 billion last year but only received R1.22 billion. This is not enough to meet the R20 billion backlog.”

Picture: Seth thorne

Efforts to Address the Crisis

Joburg Water has started several projects to improve water stability:

1. Reservoir Repairs: The city has identified leaks in 42 reservoirs and has begun repairs in 20 of them.
2. New Technology: Smart-flow controllers in high-use areas help stabilize water levels.
3. Building New Reservoirs: Construction of a new Brixton Reservoir and Pump Station is underway to increase storage.

The Department of Water and Sanitation (DWS) proposed four key actions:

• Immediate leak repairs.
• Disconnecting illegal connections.
• Ensuring accurate billing.
• Adjusting pumping levels by area to prioritize needs.

A Call for Community Action and Government Transparency

Residents must use water responsibly, report leaks, and follow level 1 water restrictions. WaterCAN, an initiative from OUTA (Organization Undoing Tax Abuse), stresses the need for transparency and cooperation between the public and government.

Dr. Ferrial Adam, WaterCAN: “People are angry over no water, constant leaks, and high bills. We need improved communication and responsible water use.”

Urgent Action Needed to Avoid “Day Zero”

Johannesburg’s water shortage demands immediate attention from the city, government, and residents. With coordinated action, accountability, and responsible use, Johannesburg might avoid the worst impacts of this crisis.