WATCH: Rubber bullets fired at water rates protest

Members of the public order policing unit were sent to monitor the situation where protests broke out on Wednesday morning, with schools and shops forced to close their doors.

Residents were protesting against what they say are "unreasonably high" water bills. 

They're now demanding their water bills be scrapped.

Resident Makama Malebana says: "We have a problem with the assessment rates. We are pleading with government to cancel residents' debt. There has been erratic water billing."

Limpopo police spokesperson Ronel Otto said roads were still closed.

"Residents have been protesting since earlier this week. However, on Wednesday morning, they started blocking roads," Otto said.

Public order police are on scene, but motorists have been advised to avoid the area. 

The Polokwane Municipality was not immediately available for comment.