Rand Water has issued a dire warning, stating it may be forced to shut down operations if municipalities fail to settle the R7.7 billion debt they owe.
The utility is responsible for supplying bulk potable water to municipalities in Gauteng, including its three metros, as well as parts of the North West and Free State provinces.
Speaking at the Gauteng councillors’ water imbizo held at Emperors Palace in Kempton Park on Tuesday, Rand Water’s Chief Operating Officer, Mahlomula Mehlo, highlighted the severity of the situation.
Mehlo explained that the utility relies entirely on payments from municipalities for its revenue.
“We are still seeing huge non-payments which are driving our debtors’ days in the wrong direction, and we always stress the point that if Rand Water is not paid, Rand Water will close shop,” Mehlo stated.
“If Rand Water closes shop, there won’t be any water or anybody to complain to about the lack of water supply.”
The warning underscored the urgent need for municipalities to address their outstanding debts to ensure the continued supply of water to millions of residents.
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