AG warns about Joburg's R2.8bn loss in leaking water revenue

Auditor-General says water crisis poses public health risk, requiring urgent intervention

- SIPHELELE DLUDLA

THE Auditor-General has raised serious concerns about the state of Johannesburg’s water infrastructure, warning Parliament that deteriorating facilities, inadequate maintenance and weak project management are contributing to environmental damage, service delivery failures and growing public health risks.

Presenting the City of Johannesburg's 2024/25 audit outcomes to Parliament's Standing Committee on Public Accounts (Scopa) on Tuesday, AG officials highlighted extensive shortcomings at key Johannesburg Water facilities, including wastewater treatment plants and water infrastructure projects.

According to the AG, Johannesburg's water losses remain alarmingly high at 45%, translating into an estimated R2.8 billion in lost revenue. The city also owes water boards and Eskom about R3.1 billion in arrears.

AG business unit leader Fhumulani Rabonda told MPs that water infrastructure should be treated as a priority area requiring urgent intervention.

“With the water challenges that we are facing in the province, this is one of the projects that needs to be intervened,” Rabonda said while referring to the Northern Wastewater Treatment Works, which is located in Diepsloot and is the largest of six wastewater treatment plants owned by the city.

“There is effective management and also effective monitoring of the implementation of the maintenance works and the clean, drinkable water that is provided to the citizens.”