Hector Norris Pump Station Problems: Joburg Water Notifies Residents of Low Pressure and Water Shortages

Johannesburg – The city’s water authority has issued a warning about the possibility of dry taps due to issues with pumping at the Hector Norris Pump Station.

Home to roughly 6.5 million residents, Johannesburg has encountered challenges with its water supply in recent weeks.

On Friday, 19 September 2025, the Parliamentary Portfolio Committee on Water and Sanitation directed Joburg Mayor Dada Morero and Joburg Water to deliver effective solutions within 14 days to tackle the ongoing disruptions in water supply.

However, on Thursday, 25 September 2025, Joburg Water alerted that certain regions of the central business district and nearby neighborhoods may experience low water pressure or, in some instances, completely dry taps.

“A technical issue is believed to be impacting the pump station, leading to variations in pumping capacity,” stated Joburg Water.

The utility confirmed that extensive testing and assessments have been carried out at the pump station and throughout the network over the last few days.

Joburg Water stressed that teams are diligently working to identify the cause of the fluctuations in pumping capacity at the Hector Norris Pump Station.

“We will enlist additional external resources to investigate the issue,” Joburg Water added.

Due to the complexity of the situation, Joburg Water indicated it is seeking the expertise of both internal and external specialists.

Joburg Water noted that the fluctuation in pumping capacity means “certain areas of the CBD and neighboring suburbs may experience reduced pressure or a complete lack of water.”

Residents in lower-lying areas will continue to receive water, while those in elevated zones may face inconsistent supply, according to Joburg Water.

The water utility has not yet announced a timeline for when the issue is expected to be resolved.