Johannesburg residents in several areas will experience water supply interruptions as Johannesburg Water undertakes planned maintenance on the Palmiet water supply system.Johannesburg Water Board Chairperson Dineo Majavu says the water cuts will be implemented in three phases starting today, as part of essential infrastructure maintenance aimed at improving system reliability.
Majavu was speaking during a media briefing held in Langlaagte on Friday.The Palmiet system is a critical component of Johannesburg’s bulk water infrastructure, supplying water to large parts of the city. Johannesburg Water says the maintenance is necessary to prevent unplanned outages, address ageing infrastructure, and ensure long-term water security.
Majavu outlined key dates during which residents should expect interruptions, urging affected communities to make alternative water arrangements during the scheduled shutdowns.
“The maintenance, as mentioned earlier by our spokesperson Nombuso Chabalala, will take place from the 12th to the 14th for the first phase, then from the 19th to the 21st, and again in early January,” Majavu said.
Johannesburg Water Managing Director Ntshavheni Mukwevho detailed the systems and areas that will be affected, noting that multiple reservoirs and supply zones linked to the Palmiet system will experience reduced pressure or complete outages. “This shutdown is going to affect three systems on the side of the bulk supplier. These systems supply different parts of the city,” Mukwevho said.
Mukwevho explained that the Palmiet System supplies parts of southern Johannesburg, including South Hills, Alexandra Park, the Greater Sandton–Alexandra region, and Greater Midrand, all of which will be affected during the maintenance period.
He added that the Swartkoppies System, operated by Rand Water, supplies parts of the south of Johannesburg, including Kibler Park, Glenvista, areas leading into the Johannesburg inner city, extending through Parktown to Yeoville.
The Daleside System supplies the Deep South, including Greater Orange Farm, Greater Ennerdale, and Lawley, which will also be impacted.
Mukwevho said the festive season was deliberately chosen for the maintenance work, as water demand is typically lower due to reduced industrial activity and many residents being away on holiday.
Johannesburg Water has encouraged residents in affected areas to use water sparingly, store sufficient water ahead of time, and monitor official communication channels for updates on supply restoration.
