Approximately fourteen million residents across four provinces and multiple cities, including Johannesburg, rely on Rand Water for their drinking water. However, they now face the looming threat of escalating water shortages and disruptions in supply. According to reports, Rand Water, the largest water utility in Africa, is grappling with a twofold challenge. Firstly, its aging infrastructure is struggling to meet the increasing demand for potable water. Secondly, the utility is depleting its water reserves as urban demand surpasses the capacity of the Integrated Vaal River System, its primary water source. Officials have cautioned customers that until late 2027, when Phase 2 of the Lesotho Highlands Water Project (LHWP) is anticipated to be completed, they should brace for "water supply challenges." These sobering insights into Rand Water's precarious water situation are outlined in the company's corporate business plan spanning from July 2023 to June 2028. This revelation comes at a time when Johannesburg is confronting one of its most severe water crises in memory. Director-General at the Department of Water and Sanitation Dr Sean Phillips and Professor at the Centre for Environmental Management at the University of the Free State Anthony Turton join Lerato Mbele for the conversation.