Siza threatens to fine water wasters

Sembcorp Siza Water announced yesterday that customers are to reduce their water consumption by 30 % or face the consequences.

This is due to the water level at Hazelmere Dam having fallen to below 45%.

In a letter sent out to Siza Water customers the water provider stated that as of November “customers are urged to reduce water consumption by at least 30%, failing which a minimum fine of R3000 will be levied to your account and your connection will be restricted.”

Ballito resident Duncan Austin contacted the Courier via Facebook, outraged.

“We have been doing everything we can to save water for months. The kids have even been bathing in buckets. We are at our lowest possible consumption already because we have paid heed to Siza Water’s recommendations. There is no 30% left to cut. Are they penalizing those of us who have been responsible? ” said Austin.

Sembcorp Siza Water managing director Shyam Misra responded: “Some consumers have reduced their consumption, however many still continue to increase consumption and hence the need the impose further and more strict restrictions.”

However he explained that in determining whether customers are achieving the 30% reduction in water usage they will utilize an average over the past three or six months consumption to determine the average prior to the restrictions being implemented. Misra clarified that Siza Water are requiring their customers to have reduced consumption by 30 % as of the beginning of the water restrictions in September.

The area serviced by Sembcorp Siza Water in KwaDukuza is from Zimbali, Ballito, Chakas Rock, Salt Rock, Sheffield to Tinley Manor and also includes Shakaskraal, Etete and Nkobongo (the area that previously fell under the Dolphin Coast municipality).

An sms notification was also sent out by Sembcorp alerting customers of a public meeting in Ballito tonight with Ilembe municipality to discuss the drought.

The meeting is being held at Braeside (next door to the Umhlali Country Club) at 6pm.