Water restrictions implemented in Ekurhuleni
NIGEL/HEIDELBERG - In response to a call by the National Department of Water and Sanitation, the Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Municipality (EMM) is implementing measures to curb water consumption by 15 percent.
A government gazette notice published on August 12 instructed water boards and municipalities to reduce their abstraction of water from the Integrated Vaal River System. This is due to prolonged drought conditions over the past few years that have put the system under severe pressure.
Residents throughout the city may have already started experiencing low water pressure as a result of pressure management initiated by the city since September 6. This means that upper floors may experience situations of very little or no water.
Ekurhuleni assures its residents that all water reduction measures will be implemented in a responsible manner. To respond adequately to water leaks, EMM has increased capacity to respond to complaints laid by the public. Residents are urged to immediately report leaks and obtain a reference number. The replacement of aged water infrastructure will be treated with utmost urgency.
While the municipality put into action these measures, residents and business are equally urged to use water sparingly and refrain from any irrigation activities between the hours of 06:00 and 18:00. 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. EMM will issue fines in terms of the municipal bylaws to residents and/or business owners contravening the restrictions.
EMM has also applied zero tolerance to illegal connection of water.
“We will soon announce additional water restrictions as well as the punitive tariff that will be applied,” EMM spokesperson Temba Gadebe said.
Residents are encouraged to continue reporting water service related interruptions through the municipal call centre on 086 054 3000.
HEIDELBERG RESIDENTS CAUTIONED
Lesedi Local Municipality are also urging residents to use water sparingly and adhere to the rules of no irrigation between 06:00 and 18:00 (unless you make use of grey water). No filling of swimming pools between the same hours. No water washing of pavements or vehicles. Reduce showering time and capture water in buckets. Report any leakages for immediate repairs to 016 492 0223/6.
“Lesedi Local Municipality encourages all residents to learn and adopt the use of water sparingly,” Arthur Thokoane (spokesperson) said.
