Save water, says municipality

ETHEKWINI Municipality is appealing to residents to continue using water sparingly, as the current status of the Hazelmere Dam level is sitting at 35.06 per cent and the water level is dropping consistently.

The municipality has had to shut down certain reservoirs in the northern region as per the schedule, which has been widely publicised.

“Despite our appeal, urging customers to save water, consumers have not heeded our call to conserve water in the predicament that we currently face. The public needs to take active steps to save water. It must also be noted that the recent rainfall did not make any positive impact on the level of Hazelmere Dam. Umgeni Water is monitoring storage dams closely and advising the municipality timeously regarding action required from us,” said eThekwini Municipality’s communications head, Tozi Mthethwa.

The municipality urged residents to be aware of water-saving tips. Do not water the garden; avoid washing cars if possible, or wash using bucket water instead of a hosepipe; do not fill swimming pools; and do not leave the tap running when brushing your teeth or for any other activities.

The municipality said a two-minute shower is better that bathing in a bath tub, and instead of washing a half load of clothes every day, wash a full load every alternate day. When washing vegetables, wash them in a dish instead of under running water. and when washing dishes do not use running water: rather fill the basin.

“Read your meter on a daily basis to ensure there are no internal leaks in your property. If you going away, close the main valve. Report leaks to our call centre and use water sparingly and wisely. Do not waste water in any way. We strongly appeal to our consumers to work with us to avert further water curtailments,” she said.

Continue reporting illegal water connections and water leaks to 080 13 13 013.

Residents can also send SMSes to 43554 when reporting water leaks, or email eservices@durban.gov.za.