Department cautions against water rituals
There is an expected continuation of rainfall in many parts of the province, and water levels in rivers and dams are expected to rise sharply.
Following the ongoing rainfall, the Department of Water and Sanitation has cautioned faith-based communities and the general public to avoid bodies of water.
During this time and the Easter holidays, people of different faiths traditionally go to the rivers to perform religious activities, including baptism.
Department spokesperson, Sputnik Ratau, said this practice has proven dangerous in most cases, as the department has been alerted of incidences of drownings in the past.
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Ratau said the recent downpours in some parts of the province, will make it even more dangerous to conduct such religious practices, as water levels in certain rivers have increased sharply.
“While we respect people’s religious beliefs, it is our responsibility as government to alert everyone about the danger associated with baptism in raging rivers, particularly during this period. Being religious should not lead to deaths of innocent people. The safety of everyone is our priority, therefore, we encourage everyone to find alternative ways of baptism to ensure safety,” Ratau said.
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“The dams and rivers have undercurrents and it is dangerous to step into water when one does not know the depth of the water. Both these unknowns are very dangerous and can cause fatal injuries, coupled with the fact that there are floating objects that cannot be seen,” Ratau emphasised.
He also urged communities to act responsible and avoid visiting dams and rivers under the influence of alcohol.
“The department will continue to monitor all its dams and release water where necessary to relieve pressure off the dams, thus ensuring safety of those living downstream,” Ratau said.
