The City of Johannesburg notes the growing “Day Zero” narrative circulating in sections of the media and public discourse. We want to state clearly and unequivocally: Johannesburg is not at Day Zero.
Day Zero refers to a complete system failure where water can no longer be supplied. Johannesburg continues to receive and distribute water across the city. However, the system remains under significant pressure due to high demand, infrastructure constraints, and ongoing supply challenges.
To intensify coordination and fast-track interventions, an Intergovernmental Water War Room has been established, bringing together the City of Johannesburg, Rand Water, Gauteng Provincial Government and national stakeholders. This structure is actively monitoring the system in real time, coordinating technical responses, accelerating repairs, and implementing demand-management measures to stabilise supply and protect critical infrastructure.
Current System Status
The Johannesburg Water Commando System is constrained, and some areas may experience low pressure to intermittent supply while technical interventions continue.
Crosby Reservoir: Low but supplying — poor pressure to no water expected in some zones
Brixton 1 Reservoir: Supplying fairly but low — poor pressure expected
Brixton 1 Tower: Low but supplying — poor pressure to no water expected
Brixton 2 Reservoir: Low but supplying — poor pressure expected
Hursthill 1 & 2 Reservoirs: On bypass — poor pressure to no water expected in affected areas
These are localised system management measures, not a collapse of the network.
Planned Maintenance – Region B
As part of long-term system stabilisation:
Affected Areas: Melville, Emmarentia, Richmond, Greenside, Westdene, Westcliff, Auckland Park, Parktown West
Reason: Structural repairs to a leaking reservoir
Impact: Supply provided via bypass during the repair period
Benefit: Improved service reliability, continuity of supply, and reduced water losses
Duration: Ongoing until April 2026
Unplanned Maintenance – Region E
Johannesburg Water teams are attending to a burst pipe on 1st Road, Linbro Park.
Supply in the immediate area has been isolated to allow repairs
Some residents may experience low pressure to no water during this period
No estimated restoration time yet — updates will follow as repairs progress
Important Public Message
Localised interruptions and pressure management do not mean the system has failed. They are necessary steps to protect reservoirs and maintain broader supply across the city.
Residents are strongly urged to reduce water consumption immediately and comply with current restrictions. Excessive use, especially during peak periods, places avoidable strain on the system and increases the risk of wider outages.
The City calls on all residents to partner with us:
Save water to protect the system
The situation will be stabilised
The City is acting decisively
Public behaviour matters
Panic and misinformation do not help, responsible water use does.
The City of Johannesburg will continue to provide regular, transparent updates as part of our commitment to keep residents informed and to counter misinformation.
Vikela Amanzi. Protect Our Tomorrow.
