Water restrictions ramped up as rainy season nears end

THE DEPARTMENT of Water and Sanitation has gazetted the increasing of water restrictions from 20% to 40%, to be implemented in the areas supplied by the Western Cape Water Supply System (WCWSS).

The Western Cape-experienced inadequate rains during the winter season, but according to the latest dam levels report released by the department, they did not make much impact as water levels in the province improved only slightly.

The average dam levels are just over 35%, a sharp decline from 60% around the same time last year, with the end of the rainy season in sight.

Concerns about the water situation were raised during the recent System Operating Forum meetings of the major water users, including the agricultural sector.

In the light of the above, the department has reasonable grounds to believe that a water shortage exists within the WCWSS supply area.

It is for this reason that our director-general (acting), under delegated authority in terms of item 6 (1) of schedule 3 read with section 72 (1) of the act, has limited the taking of water by all users as follows:

1. At least a 40% of curtailment on all domestic water use measured against the water demand of the users, as per the five-year average from 2010/11-2014/15.

2. The limitation applies from October 1, 2017.

3.The provincial head of the Western Cape is directed to lift the water restrictions should the WCWSS recover to above 85% before the next decision date.

4. The water services authorities must ensure that all domestic users at least have access to basic water services and that potable water supply to all domestic water users is not completely restricted.

The current water situation is of concern and has necessitated these water restrictions to stretch the water supply until the next rainy season and to avoid “Day Zero”.

As the department, we would like to thank all those water users who have acted in a responsible manner in ensuring they drive down the demand.

Further information in this regard will be issued.

Water is life, sanitation is dignity. Rashid Khan Regional head Department of Water and Sanitation Western Cape