More than a month after Joburg Water implemented Level 2 water restriction tariffs, consumption has only seen a decrease of 3.5 per cent of the aimed 15 per cent.
The MMC for Environment and Infrastructure Services, Anthony Still, previously said if water restriction tariffs are not effective in reducing demand by 15 per cent, the entity’s system will then face the risk of outages.
“This has further knock-on effects as outages allow air into the system which causes water hammer and an increased likelihood of bursts. So, residents are requested to take this seriously,” Still said.
The entity also said that thus far 139 notices, 41 citations and 52 fines have already been issued to defying residents.
Spokesperson for the water utility, Tidimalo Chuene said that Metro police picked up many of these offences after tip-offs were received from community members.
Chuene explained that since 5 September, the utility has received 15 per cent less water from its bulk supplier, Rand Water.
“The restriction of supply by throttling the system and water restriction tariffs has seen us reduce domestic consumption by just an average of 3.5 per cent, still far below the required 15 per cent reduction,” she said.
According to Joburg Water, dam water levels at the Integrated Vaal River System is still very low, however, reservoir levels across the city remain stable after the 15 per cent water restriction at their inflows.
Details: To report non-compliance, contact 011 758 9650.
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