Tuesday, 20 October 2026 | 16:05
JOHANNESBURG – Rand Water has warned of a potential major water supply crisis as rising consumption continues to place severe pressure on its entire distribution network.
The water utility says several municipal customers are recording exceptionally high levels of water usage, making it increasingly difficult to maintain a stable and reliable supply.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, Rand Water confirmed that it is already pumping water at maximum capacity, while demand continues to increase.
The utility cautioned that prolonged excessive consumption could disrupt the balance between supply and demand, raising the risk of water shortages and interruptions if usage is not brought under control.
Rand Water has called on all municipal customers to take immediate action to reduce consumption and help stabilise the water system.
Municipalities have also been urged to ensure that their water usage remains within their allocated volumes to prevent further strain on the network.
The utility warned that it would take the necessary measures to protect the system, including reducing water supply to municipalities that continue to exceed their allocated consumption limits.
Rand Water stressed that urgent compliance is essential to prevent a possible system failure and safeguard the continuity of water supply to communities.
Residents are encouraged to use water responsibly and avoid unnecessary wastage as authorities work to ease pressure on the network.