16 May 2006 Johannesburg Water implements high-tech sewer maintenance in Gallo Manor Johannesburg Water, the water and sanitation service provider for the City of Joburg, is currently experiencing ongoing sewer blockages in the Gallo Manor area. The blockages have been affecting the river in Canterburg Crescent area. The company currently experiences approximately 3 500 sewer blockages monthly throughout the 9 500 km of sewer network that it manages. This has prompted JW in 2003 to purchase a fleet of 3 Hydro Jetting Vacuum tankers. These tankers have combined capability of being able to jet and vacuum the sewer pipes simultaneously. This capability ensures that as the sewers are cleaned, all the debris, roots, silt and other causes of the sewer blockages are removed from the sewers thus ensuring that they are not allowed to cause further problems downstream in the network. Gallo Manor has been identified as one of JW "hotspots" area with regards to sewer blockages. Johannesburg Water proactive team is currently doing preventive sewer cleaning in Gallo Manor using these Hydro Jetting tankers. The causes of these blockages have been mainly tree roots. The sewer overflows resulting from the blockages had inevitably led to the sewerage spillage into the stream. It is anticipated that by using the Hydro Jetting Vacuum, which is on the cutting edge of world technology, JW can remedy the situation in Gallo Manor and prove its commitment to the protection of the environment. The new hi-tech vehicles will go a long way to compliment the company's existing sewer maintenance programme as well as enhance JW's commitment to environmental protection. Residents should report all sewer related problems to JW's 24-hour call centre 688 1500 Issued on behalf of Gerald Dumas Managing Director Johannesburg Water Issued by: Baldwin Matsimela Acting Senior Manager Marketing and Communications, 082 859 0459