Joburg Tap Water Smells Bad, But Tests Show It’s Safe to Drink

Residents Alarmed by Unpleasant Water Odour

Johannesburg residents were left uneasy after a strong, unusual smell was reported in their tap water at the end of December. Areas along Albertina Sisulu Road, including 6th to 9th avenues and 10th Street in the Joburg CBD, as well as Bez Valley, were particularly affected.

The unsettling odour prompted concerns over contamination, with locals taking to social media to report what some described as a “chemical” or “rotten” smell in their piped water.

Tests Bring Relief: No E. coli Detected

Johannesburg Water reassured the public in an update on Monday, 5 January 2026, that the water is safe for consumption.

“The most recent water quality tests show no detection of E. coli at any sampling points, confirming there is currently no evidence of faecal contamination,” the utility said.

However, the tests did show elevated total coliform levels, commonly found in soil. According to Joburg Water, this is not unusual and can be effectively managed through chlorination.

Chlorine Dosing and Monitoring Underway

To address the odour and maintain safety, Johannesburg Water has increased chlorine dosing in affected areas. Continuous monitoring and repeat sampling are ongoing to ensure the water meets South African National Standards (SANS).

“With the current improvement trajectory, normal supply is expected to be restored within a couple of days,” Joburg Water said, noting that the affected section of the network remains isolated until the system is fully safe for consumers.

54-Hour Maintenance and Water Pressure Impact

Complicating matters, Rand Water’s scheduled maintenance will affect Joburg’s water supply from Tuesday, 6 January at 4 am until Thursday, 8 January at 8 am.

The 54-hour work involves replacing an isolation meter in the bulk supply pipes, which will cause low pressure or no water in direct feed areas. Full recovery of supply is expected to take three to five days after the maintenance ends.

Residents are advised to store water in advance and remain patient while the utility completes the necessary upgrades.

Public Reaction and Local Context

Social media in Johannesburg was flooded with memes, complaints, and humorous takes on the “smelly water crisis,” with locals joking about smelling their taps before brushing their teeth or cooking. Public health experts emphasize that while the odour may be unpleasant, it is not a health hazard.

Historically, Johannesburg has faced periodic water quality alerts, often linked to infrastructure ageing or maintenance work. Joburg Water’s proactive communication and ongoing monitoring reflect lessons learned from past incidents, balancing public reassurance with operational transparency.

While the smell may be alarming, Johannesburg residents can rest assured: tests show their water is safe to drink. Chlorine dosing and continued monitoring will maintain quality, and water supply is expected to return to normal in the coming days.

“Stay patient, store water if needed, and avoid panic,” advised Johannesburg Water.

{Source: The Citizen}

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