Joburg Water tells three suburbs not to use water over possible contamination

Johannesburg Water has advised customers in Malvern, Jeppestown and Cleveland not to use water until further notice after damage to a water line raised concerns about possible contamination.

In a precautionary notice dated 18:15 on Sunday, 11 October, the utility said a sewer repair team working at the corner of David and Kruger streets in Malvern had damaged the line.

The affected water lines have been isolated while repairs to the sewer and damaged water line continue. The notice identifies Malvern, Jeppestown and Cleveland as affected areas.

Within Malvern, Johannesburg Water said supply had been isolated in Berlin Street, Station Street, David Street, 8th Street and 12th Street.

The warning is precautionary. The utility has not announced a confirmed contaminant or released water-quality results in the notice.

Once the damaged line is repaired, its laboratory team will collect samples for testing. The affected lines will also be flushed, followed by further sampling until the water has been assessed and cleared for use.

Johannesburg Water said supply would be reinstated only after those steps were completed and the water-quality assessment allowed it. No restoration time was given.

The utility said it would issue further information as repairs progressed and test results became available. Its notice lists 0860 056 2874 and 010 061 4470 for service queries.