Water restrictions implemented

The municipality has implemented water restrictions.

“In response to a call by the National Department of Water and Sanitation, the City of Ekurhuleni is implementing measures to curb water consumption by 15 per cent,” said Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Municipality (EMM) spokesperson Themba Gadebe.

“… Residents throughout the City may have already started experiencing low water pressure as a result of pressure management initiated by the city since Tuesday (September 6).

“This means that upper floors may experience situations of very little or no water.”

Gadebe said those who do not adhere to the measures will be fined.

“Residents and businesses are equally urged to use water sparingly and refrain from any irrigation activities between the hours of 6am in the morning and 6pm in the evening,” said Gadebe.

“No filling of swimming pools from the municipal water supply will be permitted nor the use of hosepipes and sprinklers for watering, washing cars or cleaning outdoor areas.”

People may only do the above-mentioned if it falls between 6pm and 6am, Gadebe said.

“The City will implement fines in terms of the municipal by-laws for all those found to be contravening these restrictions,” Gadebe said.

Gadebe said the municipality will soon announce additional water restrictions as well as the punitive tariff that will be applied.

To respond adequately to water leaks, Gadebe said the EMM has increased capacity to respond to complaints laid by the public.

Members of the public are requested to report leaks to the EMM call centre and obtain a reference number.

The replacement of aged water infrastructure will be treated with utmost urgency, Gadebe added.

Clr André du Plessis (Ward 23) said the water restriction resolution has not yet been passed in council, although he said he does not think it will be opposed.

Residents are encouraged to report water-service-related interruptions through the municipal call centre on 086 054 3000.