Rains do not spell end of troubles

THE Karoo region received much needed rain during the past weekend.

However, due to acute water challenges in this region, the rain was inadequate to bring relief to the dire situation.

The rain did not fall to the catchment areas. As such, the inflow into the rivers was not significant leading to little or no inflows into the dams.

According to the latest dam levels assessment of February 14, the Western Cape dams are in a healthier state as compared with same time last year.

The fact that we are better off than last year provides us with more vigour to not be complacent but to re-energise our water saving efforts.

Our department, in conjunction with the provincial government, is implementing short- to mediumterm interventions in Central Karoo and some include:

● Enforcement of current level 4 water restrictions.

● Continuous leak detection and repairs.

● Replacement of faulty water meters with smart meters in the next few months.

● Awareness on various platforms including radio and social media.

As we are all aware, due to the effects of climate change it has become a norm for drought to be followed by floods, we advise citizens to take precautions when crossing bridges and engaging in recreational activities near water systems.

As much as we appreciate downpours, we wish to remind citizens that water can be dangerous.

“Water is life, sanitation is dignity.” MALUSI RAYI

Communications: Department of Water and Sanitation Western Cape Region