ADM appeals for sparing use of water

The Amathole District Municipality (ADM) has warned its residents to use water sparingly during the festive season as it is expecting its system to be under “severe strain”.

The municipality has indicated that its water and sanitation systems will be under pressure as holiday makers make their way to different local municipalities within the district.

“With the influx of holiday makers and people returning home for the holidays, water and sanitation systems, many of which are already running at capacity, will be put under severe strain,” said acting ADM spokeswoman Noni Vuso.

She said this might result in more breakdowns than usual.

“In addition to the extra demand placed on our systems, it is also the rainy season, where the probability of electric storms and tornadoes can be on the increase. These events often lead to damaged electrical equipment and power outages, which also contribute to system failures,” she said.

The district municipality is a water authority for six local rural municipalities, including Raymond Mhlaba, Great Kei, Mnquma, Ngqushwa, Mbhashe and Amahlathi.

Vuso said that water tankers will be operational and additional sewer tankers have been hired for the coastal resort towns, where demand for conservancy tank clearance increases.

“Operations managers will be on duty/standby during this period to oversee operations and deal with any emergencies,” she said.