Water cuts on the cards for Newcastle?

The mere thought of our taps running dry is enough to send residents into a state of panic.

Since the province hit somewhat of a dry patch, officials have painted a bleak picture of the state of our water supply.

“The worst drought since 1991 has tightened its grip on the province as households and businesses across various municipalities in KwaZulu-Natal will implement new water restrictions,” said MEC for Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (CoGTA), Nomusa Dube-Ncube.

Ms Dube-Ncube said some residents in the province have less than two months before their taps will run dry.

“We need to start preparing ourselves for the worst. It’s time for everyone to acknowledge there isn’t an endless water supply,” she explained.

CoGTA revealed the amount of water available has dropped to below 30 per cent, a figure likely to decrease in the coming months.

The department said dam water levels began declining in October 2013 after the province received minimal rainfall for two seasons.

Although Newcastle is not yet directly affected by the drought, Newcastle Municipality said the community should not turn its back on its neighbours.

“We must fully participate in conserving water for the benefit of all who reside in KZN,” read a statement issued on the municipality’s website.

Mayor, Afzul Rehman encouraged residents to remember water is a precious source that should be used with care.

“While the municipality is not currently under immediate threat, the low rainfalls across the province also put Newcastle in danger of water shortages within the next few months,” said Cllr Rehman. “Our wish to Newcastle water customers is that they will use water sparingly, make sure leaks are reported and fixed by the municipality and consciously save water.”

The municipality warned consumers if the situation persists as predicted, water restrictions will be ‘unavoidable in both Newcastle West and East’.

The restrictions will be implemented in line with council bylaws. It condemned the excessive use of water and ‘irresponsible car washing business’ in the strongest possible terms.

Cllr Rehman concluded urging residents to make water conservation part of their every day lives.

The municipality advised residents to report water and sanitation related queries to its 24-hour call centre on 0860 144 144.

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