The eThekwini Municipality has warned that water supply restoration to several communities in Durban will be delayed after a city official was reportedly threatened and prevented from accessing a reservoir in Chatsworth.

The official was attempting to close valves to allow the system to refill, but the confrontation has left Reservoir 4 with insufficient water, affecting areas including Montford, Woodhurst, and Crossmoor. Residents claim they have been without water since Friday, forcing schools to close and leaving elderly citizens to collect water from distant sources.

Frustrated community members allege a lack of communication from the municipality regarding water schedules, leading to growing desperation. Some residents admitted to trespassing at the reservoir in an attempt to restore supply themselves.

Municipal officials have urged the public not to interfere with infrastructure, while residents demand better transparency and water tanker support. The situation remains unresolved, with no clear timeline for restoration.