Residents in parts of southern Johannesburg will be thrilled to hear that their water system is to be upgraded.

Residents in parts of southern Johannesburg will be thrilled to hear that their water system is to be upgraded.

Johannesburg Water (JW) spokesman Baldwin Matsimela said yesterday water pipes would be refurbished in Glenvista, Kibler Park and Ridgeway from next month.

The upgrading of the water mains was to prevent the frequency with which pipes burst, causing extensive flooding. Private properties in Lineata Avenue, Glenvista, have been severely damaged after pipes burst, he said.

Almost 2km of pipes will be replaced at a cost of R2,4 million.

"We plan to begin construction at the beginning of March at Lineata Avenue because it has been identified as a major problem area. The overall project is expected to be completed by the end of June this year.

"JW is aware of the problems caused by old and outdated municipal water systems.

"We have a comprehensive programme to upgrade and rehabilitate the entire city of Johannesburg," Matsimela said.

JW did not anticipate disruptions to water supplies during the upgrade.

"However, we will give residents at least 48 hours' notice should there be an interruption while work is being done."

Matsimela appealed to residents to contact JW's 24-hour call centre on 011-688-1500 to report water and sewer problems. - Sapa