Plea to use water sparingly

AS WE welcome the most-needed rain in some parts of the country, it is important that we do not forget to conserve the most precious resource so we are not blindsided.

Rainfall is not a licence to use water irresponsibly.

South Africa is a water-scarce country and we have been going through one of the worst and most devastating droughts in decades, for a long time.

Our dams, rivers and other watercourses are recovering from the effects of the drought, which simply means we currently do not have the required amount of water in the country.

Rain is crucial for our rivers and wetlands to recharge and increase the water levels in our dams. Most of our dams are not at full capacity and will still require some serious rain to get there.

It is critical for all of us to use the available water sparingly and wisely to ensure we do not deplete what we currently have.

The recent rain is also important because it refills our groundwater resources as most boreholes have run dry as a result of the drought. Serious downpours are required to fully recharge our groundwater sources to cater for the needs of society.

This calls for us to work together to ensure our water sources are protected and the available water is used wisely.

It is also important to remember that water has no boundaries – we share our rivers and watercourses with our neighbouring countries.

In other words, the water from the rain in our country must also be shared with our neighbours as per the international treaties.

This is a major reason to propel everyone to conserve and use the available water wisely, keeping in mind our and our neighbours’ needs.

As we celebrate the falling rain, it is also important that we exercise caution and protect ourselves and our properties.

Rain is precious but it can also be deadly through flash floods, so we must always be careful and safe.

Rain brings us water, but water security is in our hands. Our actions and behaviour are key to sustainable water supply for this generation and generations to come.

Working together, we can ensure the rain contributes to water security and sustainable supply for all.

So let’s use available water wisely and in a conservative manner.

Always remember that rainfall is not a daily occurrence and climate change negatively availability. Act and behave in a water-wise manner at all times. THEMBA KHOZA Mbombela affects water