At a drought crisis meeting in KwaDukuza last week, it was clear that everyone has to be on high alert about water usage, because the drought is here to stay.
The true grueling meaning of a drought hit home for many people in the past few days with the start of water shutoffs, leaving Dolphin Coast taps dry.
Manager of corporate communications, Zee Nqala emphasized that the situation is serious and that the municipality needs the public’s help to save every drop.
“The municipality cannot do it alone and we can only get through this crisis if everyone works together,” she said.
Deputy director of technical services, Notha Maphumulo added that rain has been predicted only around November, which means we have to conserve the little we have until then.
“We will be installing valves to control the water supply, however we have to be wary of the old infrastructure in some parts, as it might not be able to handle the shut offs and the pipes could burst,” said Maphumulo.
“People must report burst pipes and leaks and if they do not there will be consequences, as everyone, rich or poor, must comply and help during this crisis.”
He added that the municipality is drilling boreholes in the hopes of finding more water, but he said this is not a solution.
“We currently have more than 30 water tankers working in the district, with a tanker costing R4000 to R5000 a day. Some of them have been travelling 120km one way per day just to get water,” he said.
“Water is life and South Africa is a dry country, therefore we should have ongoing water campaigns to remind people to be water conscious at all times, not just during droughts.”
Maphumulo said those who have not yet started praying for rain, should start now.
Stay in the loop with The North Coast Courier on Facebook, X, Instagram & YouTube for the latest news.
Mobile users can join our WhatsApp Broadcast Service here, or if you’re on desktop, scan the QR code below.
