Be water-wise, dam levels critical

MBOMBELA – Six dams in the province are at a critically low level, due to the recent heatwave and lack of rain experienced in various parts of the country.

Despite the low dam levels, minister for human settlements, water and sanitation, Lindiwe Sisulu assured citizens that there will not be a need for “water-shedding” if consumers adhered to calls to save water.

Sisulu said this during a media briefing held in Johannesburg on Monday on urgent measures to address water challenges across the country. She admitted that there is a looming crisis, but pleaded with users to do whatever is necessary to ensure that water is conserved.

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“Climate change is a reality and South Africa is one of the countries feeling the effects of the phenomenon.” However, she pointed out that there is no need for the public to panic at this stage. “It is imperative for water consumers to be prudent in the way they use water,” said Sisulu.

Themba Khumalo, from the provincial Department of Water and Sanitation, said the province continues to record weekly declines in volumes in dams and water management areas. “This week’s report shows that water storage levels dropped by one per cent from last week. Other areas continuing to drop include Inkomati-Usuthu Water Management Areas recording 48,7 per cent to 47,8 per cent and 63,6 percent to 62,8 per cent.  We urge water users to strengthen water initiatives and use the available water sparingly,” he said.

FIVE WAYS TO BE WATER-WISE
1. Taking a five-minute shower a day instead of a bath will save you up to 400 litres a week
2.  Always water your plants during the early morning hours or in the evening, when temperatures are cooler
3. Do not fill your kettle to the brim, rather use just enough for your needs
4. Do not overfill or excessively backwash your swimming pool
5. If you prefer to bath, do not fill up the tub.

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