Johannesburg Water says it has discovered that over 200 homes have been built on its water pipeline in Protea Glen, Soweto. This is following extensive troubleshooting during the past week.

The encroachment has contributed to ongoing water supply issues in the area, with some extensions experiencing complete water outage.

Johannesburg water managing director, Ntshavheni Mukwevho, emphasised the significant risk posed by this encroachment, particularly in the event of a pipeline burst, which could lead to flooding in the area. “We eventually identified that a valve had dropped, and that valve is located inside one of the affected properties”, says Mukwevho adding that approximately 280 houses were built directly on top of the pipeline.

Mukwevho further indicated that the entity is working diligently to address these issues, focusing on both short-term and long-term solutions to restore water pressure and mitigate the flood risk. “Johannesburg water is engaging with local authorities and residents to find the most effective way to resolve these challenges and ensure a safe and reliable water supply for all.”

“The existing encroachment poses a risk to Johannesburg water and residents should any maintenance issues arise in the future.”