Great concern as dam levels drop sharply

IT IS dire times for Komani residents with only 5% of water that can still be extracted from the Bonkolo Dam with water restrictions set to continue indefinitely.

The level of the Waterdown Dam, which serves as a supplementary source for the area, has also declined from 96.6% at the same time last year to 69.4%, according to a recent report from the Department of Water and Sanitation (DWS).

Tsojana dam in Intsika Yethu is standing at 97% and Macubeni dam in Emalahleni at 96%, with both showing a 2% increase in level compared to the previous year.

Chris Hani District Municipality (CHDM) communications manager Thobeka Mqamelo said, “The status of water sources in Komani has warranted the implementation of water restrictions to promote conservation.

“This involves cutting off water at night to ensure availability in the mornings as reservoirs would have recuperated through the night to levels that will sustain consumption for the entire day.”

Mqamelo said during the day the demand for water was higher which resulted in the dropping of reservoir levels.

“Should the restrictions be applied during the day, high-lying areas which rely on a specific water reservoir level for supply, would not have any water at all. Any further restrictions, will be communicated should the need arise.”

The Xonxa Dam project, which is expected to assist in the water supply to the Enoch Mgijima area, was expected to start operating before the end of this year.

The estimated completion date for construction processes has been set for the end July, which Mqamelo said would be followed by a testing process due to run for a month.

“This project will not only focus on Komani and the system to [supply] Machibini and Ilinge are expected to be functional towards the end of 2018. It is worth noting that the magnitude of the Xonxa project and aligned financial resources has necessitated its phased implementation approach. Therefore, the consistent availability of funding from the Department of Water and Sanitation becomes a major determinant of the progress.”

According to DWS report the current low water levels were largely attributed to the lack of rain caused by drought and climate change.

“The average Eastern Cape dam levels are 62% compared with the norm of 72% at this time of year. The situation could worsen in winter when there is less rain. DWS pleads with all water users to use water wisely to prevent a crisis.”