Severe implications if drought continues
Despite the many articles that have appeared in this newspaper and in other sources about the dire drought that has gripped this region, it seems the situation is still not getting the serious attention it deserves.
WE are on the brink of a major calamity should good rains not fall during this summer – and the prospects of that happening are looking slim.
Besides the obvious economic effects of prolonged drought, there are also massive social and environmental implications.
Enforced reduction in water usage is already affecting many businesses, and it will get worse if we escalate to Level 4 restrictions.
Most companies use water in their production processes and some, like paper mills, use enormous quantities.
Others use water to wash products, clean storage areas, dampen dust, clean vehicles and equipment and for other purposes, such as cooling plants.
Agriculture will obviously be hard hit, leading to huge food price increases.
Smaller businesses like garden services and landscapers will be out of work.
Already, the spend by farmers is well below that in a normal climatic cycle.
That again escalates to local business, from motor sales to travel.
NGOs and NPOs, already battling, will see donations dwindle.
As the last available water recedes, livestock and wild animals suffer.
In the short term, meat prices might drop as owners are forced to slaughter for lack of grazing and fodder, but this will inevitably be followed by hefty increases.
Socially, LifeLine Zululand has already warned that drought-induced poverty will lead to a steady rise in the numbers of commercial sex workers.
This again will increase the number of HIV/AIDS victims, which has its own socio-economic impact.
Crime stats will rise, as will incidents of rage: it is said the next world war will be fought over water.
Local and district government must take the lead in ensuring all citizens are fully aware of their responsibilities and of the severity of the situation.
They should also be prudent in managing the resources that will be allocated to meet this disaster.
There is a looming prospect that taps might literally run dry.
Take heed: we are on the edge of a terrible human disaster!
