Residents in Coronationville, Westbury, and Claremont have voiced mounting frustration over persistent water supply disruptions linked to Rand Water’s scheduled maintenance programme. While emergency water tankers have been deployed to affected areas, community members report inconsistent delivery schedules and concerns regarding water quality.
In Coronationville, residents stated that tankers—supposed to arrive by 7:00 AM and follow an hourly schedule—frequently fail to appear. With no reliable timeline for deliveries, some households have turned to a local mosque for clean water. When tankers do arrive, multiple residents reported that the water provided was discolored and unsuitable for consumption.
Vulnerable groups face heightened hardship. Elderly residents described difficulties arranging and affording assistance to collect water, while patients requiring clean water for medication expressed concern over health risks. One community member noted that a tanker that arrived the previous day delivered water that was visibly dirty.
The situation in Claremont reflects similar challenges. A water tanker previously stationed in the area was removed after its supply was depleted, with no immediate replacement. Residents interviewed indicated uncertainty about where to access alternative water sources, leaving many without a clear solution for daily needs.
Authorities have acknowledged the disruptions and confirmed that restoration efforts are underway. Officials stated that while some neighborhoods have seen water supply resume, high-lying areas and communities dependent on the Commando system and Brixton reservoir continue to experience delays. The ongoing Rand Water maintenance programme remains the primary cause of the interruptions, with full stabilization expected to take additional time.
Community members continue to await consistent access to clean, reliable water as repair and system-stabilization work progresses across the affected Johannesburg suburbs.
