Wednesday, October 30, 2024

Johannesburg Water shares how vandalism/theft, logging a call is important anmd old infrastructure

Numerous problems have been occurring in Lenasia and the neighbouring areas, including big leaks, burst pipes, theft, vandalism, and logging a call either telephonically or via email. 

Nombuso Shabalala, the media spokesperson for Johannesburg Water, gave us at Lenasia @ a Glance some input. 

Shabala explained that the issues of aging infrastructure and vandalism in Johannesburg's water system are indeed critical. Frequent pipe bursts and water meter leakages not only disrupt supply but also exacerbate the need for urgent upgrades. The risk to public safety, especially for children near open manholes, highlights the urgent need for solutions.

Johannesburg Water's plan is to implement physical and electronic protection systems in high-theft areas is a proactive step. The use of CCTV for crime deterrence and community awareness campaigns can engage residents and foster a sense of ownership over local infrastructure. The introduction of smart manhole covers with sensors will enhance monitoring and enable rapid responses to theft, potentially minimizing service interruptions.

This includes strengthening security measures and promoting community involvement, Johannesburg Water aims to create a more reliable water supply while safeguarding the wellbeing of residents. These initiatives could serve as a model for other cities facing similar challenges.

This includes strengthening security measures and promoting community involvement, Johannesburg Water aims to create a more reliable water supply while safeguarding the wellbeing of residents. These initiatives could serve as a model for other cities facing similar challenges.


By-law enforcement's approach to combating asset loss and theft: To find customers who are not customers, the organisation would perform routine inspections and stand-by-stand audits. 
By-law enforcement is required for this process, and the Johannesburg Metropolitan Police department (JMPD) will work with them to accomplish this. 

 
“Residents and community members are urged to report criminal activities such as theft and vandalism of infrastructure by calling(0800 002 587 or City of Joburg social media platforms. Residents can also send an anonymous email to: whistle@joburg.org.za,” said Shabalala


She further stated that the City of Johannesburg has allocated the Entity a multi-year capital budget for sewer and water upgrades and maintenance. The allocated budget will focus on programmes geared towards sewer and water pipe replacement, upgrades and storage infrastructure, as well as repairs and maintenance. You can find more information on our business plan: https://www.johannesburgwater.co.za/resource-centre/business-plans-2/


Informal settles play a crucial part of Johannesburg Waters duties and despite the challenges they face they work with the Department of Housing (Human Settlements) is the custodian of informal settlements. As such, when basic services such as water tanks and ventilated improved pit (VIP) / chemical toilets are required, Johannesburg Water receives a directive from the department to provide those water and sanitation services.
Johannesburg Water emphasizes the importance of logging calls for efficient service delivery. The internal SAP system captures calls, generates reference numbers, and assigns jobs to available teams. Prompt reporting of issues helps Johannesburg Water prioritize and address them effectively, leading to better water service for all.


Turnaround times for responding to logged calls differ. Please see the below:

· Turnaround times:

· Sewer: 24 hrs

· Water outage: 12 hrs

· Leaking meter: 3 days

· Burst meter: 24 hrs

· Water leak: 48 hrs

· Major burst pipe: 48 hrs

·
 “Shabalala ended by saying; “Response times for logged calls can be affected by various factors, such as burst and leaking pipes. These issues can affect the nature and magnitude of the work, machinery, human labour, and weather conditions. The process includes investigating, isolating the water supply, excavating, assessing material, sourcing, and repairing the pipe. In some cases, a specialist may be needed, causing further delays in the repair process.”

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