SEDIBENG.- With the persistent water scarcity the country is facing and with the Vaal Dam which is just a mere 33.3% full, it has been decided to implement water restrictions in Johannesburg.For several months now, the Vaal Damhas been under its threshold of 60%. Residents who cannot obey the rules will be fined up to R1 500. The consumption of water Johannesburg is therefore requires a reduction of 15% as Rand Water cut their water supply with the same percentage. During November, level 2 water restrictions were already established, but residents could still use their sprinkler systems to water their gardens. Now this may not be used and a swimming pool may only be filled with borehole water. Gardens can only be watered with hoses, buckets and water containers. Johannesburg Water Council has enlisted the help of the Johannesburg Metro Police Department (JMPD) to give fines to those who do not follow the rules-come.According to the water board 40% of Johannesburg's water consumption was due to watering gardens. New water restrictions tariffs will come into effect as follows: * 10% extra for water consumption between 20 000 and 30 000 liters a month. * 20% extra for water consumption between 30 000 and 40 000 liters a month. * 30% increase for water consumption more than 40 000 liters a month In the meantime, Johannesburg Water Board will do everything in their power to prevent leakages in order to save water. They also encourage people to invest in boreholes.
