Midrand councillors back Carlswald reservoir, but warn crisis is not over

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26-02-2026
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Midrand Reporter
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Midrand ward councillors back the long-awaited Carlswald reservoir construction project while warning that leaks and ageing pipes still threaten Midrand’s supply.

Amid growing frustration over recurring water outages in Midrand and Johannesburg, local ward councillors have expressed their support for the long-awaited construction of the Carlswald 10ml reservoir.

They cautioned, however, that deeper infrastructure failures still jeopardise the area’s water security.

Ward 112 councillor Lerato Mphefo and Ward 132 councillor Annette Deppe welcomed the conclusion of a public-private partnership (PPP) between Midrand developers and Johannesburg Water to fund and build the Carlswald reservoir.

Johannesburg Chamber of Commerce and Industry (JCCI) president Caren Sutherns confirmed in a statement that, together with private developers and Johannesburg Water, they have concluded a collaboration agreement to construct the reservoir in Midrand.

“Developers from the private sector have committed to contributing towards the construction of this critical water infrastructure project in a private partnership that was approved and announced by the executive mayor last year,” said Sutherns.

“This collaboration represents a practical and forward-thinking partnership between the private sector and the city to address infrastructure demands driven by growth and development in Midrand. The additional reservoir capacity will significantly strengthen water security, improve system resilience, and support both existing residents and future development in the area.”

Sutherns further acknowledges the role played by Johannesburg Water in assisting with the facilitation of this collaboration, stating that construction engagement between stakeholders is essential to ensuring that infrastructure keeps pace with urban expansion.

“Midrand continues to grow rapidly, and infrastructure delivery must remain a priority. This initiative demonstrates what can be achieved when stakeholders work together in the best interests of residents and the broader economy.”

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This critical project is aimed at increasing storage capacity, strengthening supply resilience, and supporting Midrand’s rapid growth. However, the councillor emphasised that while this initiative showcases the potential of private sector involvement, it also underlines the city’s ongoing failure to properly plan, fund, and maintain essential infrastructure.

“For years, the DA has advocated for PPPs as a practical solution to address Johannesburg’s infrastructure backlog amid declining municipal finances and deteriorating service delivery,” said the councillors.

“However, simply building new capacity will not resolve Midrand’s water crisis. Widespread leaks, pipe bursts, ageing infrastructure, and illegal connections continue to strain the system. If these issues are not urgently addressed, a significant portion of the water intended for residents will be lost before it ever reaches the new reservoir.”

The councillors added that Midrand’s rapid residential and commercial expansion necessitates sustained investment and maintenance of infrastructure. Without effective management and decisive intervention from the city, they warned, new projects risk becoming costly temporary fixes rather than long-term solutions.

The councillors concluded that they will closely monitor the implementation of the Carlswald project and hold the administration accountable to ensure residents receive a reliable water supply.