WATCH: World-class African city? Dry taps, leaking pipes and a new ‘lake’ in Joburg

2026-02-11 - 06:36

Dry taps, leaking pipes and a strike are just some of the bungles that have contributed to Joburg’s latest water woes as the city teeters on the brink of day zero. Even a new “lake” is forming due to a massive leak. The current crisis is a far cry from the city’s tagline, “World-class African City.” This comes as residents plan protests in various parts of the city, including Melville, Parktown West, Mayfair, Greenside, Parkview, and Emmarentia, which have been without water for nearly 20 days. Johannesburg Water on Monday said its central systems remain constrained due to poor incoming supply and increased demand. Strike On Tuesday, Johannesburg Water confirmed that a strike by some of its workers over unpaid bonuses had ended. The strike came as the City of Johannesburg battled a widespread and escalating water crisis, with residents across the city “effectively living under day zero conditions.” The protest action led by workers affiliated to the South African Municipal Workers Union (SAMWU) was deemed unprotected. ALSO READ: Joburg residents ‘effectively living under day zero conditions’ Water fights In several areas, residents queue for hours at water tankers, only to find supplies run out before everyone can collect water. Reports indicate that people are beginning to fight among themselves as some residents take far more water than others, leaving families, the elderly and children with nothing. Linbro Park Lake Meanwhile, major water leaks across Johannesburg continue to persist. On Monday, Johannesburg DA mayoral candidate Helen Zille shared a video on her Instagram account in which she is seen sitting on the edge of a massive hole, cooling her legs in a pool of water from a burst pipe. ‘Lekker summer day’ In