Johannesburg Water has disconnected the water supply to 15 customers in gated communities and complexes due to a collective debt of over R2.7 million. The water entity confirmed that the disconnections occurred on Monday as part of a level one disconnection drive.
High Debt Leads to Johannesburg Water disconnecting some customers
According to IOL News, spokesperson Nombuso Shabalala confirmed that the affected properties are in the north and south of Johannesburg, where customers failed to settle outstanding payments.
“The 15 customers who were disconnected on Monday live in gated communities and complexes in the south and north of Johannesburg and collectively owe over R2.7 million,” she stated.
Limited Access to Properties
The entity’s Senior Manager for Metering and Revenue, Siphindile Ngange, highlighted that teams often struggle to reach meters inside gated communities.
“Today, we have visited the complexes who have been denying us access,” Ngange explained.
To restore water supply, affected customers must either settle their accounts in full or arrange a payment plan with the City’s Credit Management Department. Johannesburg Water urged residents to cooperate, emphasising that payment arrangements could prevent further disruptions.
Increased Water Consumption Adds Pressure
According to The Citizen, the utility reported that its systems are experiencing significant challenges due to demand exceeding available capacity.
“As a result, systems are under strain, leading to lower reservoir and tower levels. This may cause reduced water pressure or, in some areas, a complete loss of supply,” Joburg Water stated in their update.
According to the utility, Johannesburg remains under Level 1 water restrictions, and Johannesburg Water has implemented additional water supply reductions since 8 November 2024.
With financial pressures and rising demand, should stricter regulations be implemented to ensure responsible water usage?
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