![](https://images.caxton.co.za/wp-content/uploads/sites/36/2015/05/1520Lwater-Custom.jpg)
JOHANNESBURG Water, the city’s water and sanitation entity, will spend over R16-million to upgrade water infrastructure in a number of suburbs in the southern and central parts of Johannesburg.
The upgrades started in May.
Over 10 000 metres of pipe will be replaced in these areas, over a period of time, using a number of contractors. The project will also create employment opportunities for residents.
Johannesburg Water recognises the inconvenience residents experience when a pipe bursts, or when water supply has to be shut unexpectedly as a result of emergency repairs. The entity is also aware of the rapid growth of the city, which calls for infrastructure expansion to meet the daily demands. These are just some of the reasons Johannesburg Water has undertaken to place water infrastructure upgrades as one of its priorities.
Areas where water infrastructure upgrades will be taking place include Gold Reef, Meredale, Bassonia and Brixton.
Johannesburg Water always puts the safety of residents first when embarking on activities involving excavations. This is done by ensuring open trenches are properly barricaded and warning signs erected at all times. In addition, the organisation will continue to engage with and educate communities throughout the city about the dangers of some of the construction sites.
During the construction period, there will be open trenches while the pipes are replaced or installed. Johannesburg Water has asked for residents to be extra vigilant when there is an open trench in area to avoid accidents. A special plea was also made to parents to assist the entity by keeping their children away from construction sites.
Johannesburg Water thanked residents for their understanding and patience during the construction period.