Municipality gets tough on water restrictions

GRAAFF-REINET — The Dr Beyers Naudé Local Municipality is enforcing water restrictions in Graaff-reinet amid a persistent drought.

The municipality is currently experiencing major challenges in supplying Graaff-reinet with water.

The water supply from the dam has been closed-off as dam levels are inadequate to supply water - water is, therefore, being supplied from boreholes.

This necessitates all consumers within the municipality to immediately adhere to the water restrictions.

In terms of Section 4 of the Water Services Act 108 of 1997 and Clause 31 of the Water and Sanitation Services By Law, the following will be prohibited from immediate effect.

1. The use of water obtained from the municipality’s water supply system for:

a) watering of gardens, lawns, grassed areas, flowerbeds, sports fields, bowling greens and the like;

b) topping up or filling of fountains, ornamental ponds, and the like;

c) filling of swimming and paddling pools

d) washing of paved areas, walls, roofs, buildings and similar structures.

2. The use or operation of hosepipes, sprinklers, automatic swimming pool fillers, automatic urinal flushing systems and the connection of a hosepipe or any form of an irrigation system to a tap supplying water from the municipality’s water supply system unless for the purposes permitted in terms of this notice. Exemptions:

1. The use of reclaimed water obtained from sources other than the municipality’s water supply system.

2. Watering gardens, lawns, grassed areas and flowerbeds by means of a hand-held container.

3. The use or operation of a hosepipe or sprinkler system for firefighting.

4. The filling of a new pool on completion of initial construction.

5. Commercial vehicle washing business where at least 70% of the water is recycled (vehicle washing by means of a handheld container is permitted).

6. Watering of plants, trees and shrubs in commercial, state and municipal nurseries.

7. The filling of swimming pools at hotels, fitness centres, medical centres, schools, educational institutions and institutions of higher education.

The prohibitions contained in this notice shall not apply in any case specifically exempted, in writing, by the municipal manager.