Persistent water supply challenges continue to plague Johannesburg and parts of Gauteng, with frustrated residents demanding immediate intervention as government officials scramble to address the worsening crisis ahead of tonight’s State of the Nation Address.
Authorities have acknowledged that restoring full supply is a complex undertaking, even as Minister of Water and Sanitation Pemmy Majodina, Minister of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs Velenkosini Hlabisa, Deputy Ministers David Mahlobo and Zolile Burns‑Ncamashe (also referred to as Masemola), and City of Johannesburg Executive Mayor Dada Morero conducted an oversight visit to reservoirs in Midrand today.
The oversight team visited the President Park reservoir and other facilities, remaining behind closed doors in a briefing session with officials. They have indicated they will address the media following the meeting.
Residents in areas including Ridgeway and Melville have voiced growing discontent following public engagements. During an engagement last night in Melville and again this morning in Midrand, community members expressed that the water shortages are not merely an inconvenience but a violation of their constitutional right to water.
Mr. Patel, a resident who spoke with officials, said communities are calling for urgent presidential intervention to address what they describe as a crisis.
During a media briefing yesterday in Irene, Minister Majodina stated that she does not possess the authority to declare the water situation affecting parts of the country a national disaster, limiting immediate government options for a large-scale response.
Executive Mayor Morero confirmed yesterday that the city is working around the clock and has outlined plans to construct four additional reservoirs aimed at increasing supply to Midrand and surrounding areas. However, officials also acknowledged that billions of rands are required to repair aging infrastructure that contributes significantly to system failures.
Residents have pushed back against the infrastructure narrative, stating they do not believe aging pipes alone explain the severity of shortages affecting their daily lives.
The water crisis is expected to feature prominently in tonight’s State of the Nation Address, as President Cyril Ramaphosa outlines government’s plans to tackle service delivery and infrastructure challenges.
Proceedings at the Mahanga Commission also resumed today, continuing alongside the pressing service delivery concerns gripping the nation’s economic heartland.