WATCH | Dry taps, flooded streets: Zille points to millions of litres wasted in Joburg

Zille

Johannesburg – South Africa’s water crisis is becoming increasingly visible, with millions of litres of clean water wasted through burst pipes while residents face water shortages.

In Linbro Park, Johannesburg, a pipe has been gushing water for a week, creating a “lake” as taps in nearby homes run dry.

DA mayoral candidate Helen Zille criticised Joburg Water, saying leaks and poor infrastructure — not overuse — are driving high water consumption.

“Joburg municipality wastes millions of litres of water every day while communities have dry taps,” she said, arguing that municipalities should fix leaks before blaming residents.

“In Linbro Park a burst pipe has been leaking clean, drinkable water for over a week. Residents aren’t the ones who need to reduce their consumption – Joburg Water must get its act together.”

DA Tshwane mayoral candidate Cilliers Brink highlighted similar issues in Pretoria, noting non-revenue water has risen from 33% to nearly 40% in a year, and spending on water tankers increased by 450%, exceeding R1 billion in 2024-25, The Citizen reported.

Brink stressed that municipalities must monitor reservoir levels and reduce water waste to manage supply, especially when bulk suppliers like Rand Water impose restrictions.

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