Water restrictors to be fitted to homes across Durban
The local councillor says the decision was taken without consulting councillors or residents.
EVERY home in Durban will be fitted with water restrictors. That’s according to uMhlanga ward councillor, Heinz de Boer, who today said the installation throughout north Durban would be fitted in the coming months. The move comes after a number of pleas for residents to save water did not bear fruition. However, De Boer has expressed anger that the decision to install the devices was not communicated to residents or councillors.
“eThekwini municipal head of water, Ednick Msweli, has this afternoon confirmed to me that water restrictors will be fitted in all water meters across the city. Installation has already begun in parts of Phoenix today. About 50 000 restrictors were placed in meters last year. This was mainly for homes that are fed from the Hazelmere system.
“The recent announcement from the city that water usage needs to drop by 15 per cent has led to the city taking the decision to install flow restrictors. The restrictors will basically cut the volume of water allowed through a meter by about half. North Durban residents can expect water officials to install restrictors within the next few months. Unfortunately at this stage I do not have a time frame for north Durban,” he said.
These restrictors will be coupled with the city’s controversial plan to fine residents who do not save 15 per cent in their water bills, added De Boer.
“What irks me is that the city has yet to not only make its plan on how intends fining people, but has not communicated with councillors or residents on the installation of restrictors,” he said.
