Record rainfall nothing to crow about
Despite record rainfalls in both November and December, the level of the Ntshingwayo/ Chelmsford Dam increased by a meagre two per cent.
CHELMSFORD – Recent rains are but a drop in the ocean.
Despite record rainfalls in both November and December, the level of the Ntshingwayo/ Chelmsford Dam increased by a meagre two per cent.
By this measure, the water crisis is not yet over.
Read: WEATHER UPDATE – Spring rain expected for Friday
Acting Managing Director of uThukela Water, Luiz Cunha explained it would require significantly more rain to bring the dam back to 85 per cent.
“This could be deemed a normal level. I am trying to establish how much rainfall it would require from the Department of Water Affairs.”
Although the precise number is uncertain, Mr Cunha said uThukela’s estimates showed 30 per cent was the minimum green zone for the dam.
Good inflows helped bring this closer to reality.
Residents also reported the Ngagane River had been in a state of overflow, although the downpour was not a boon to all residents.
Many were left stranded when some areas flooded last week.
And amid the positive news of rainfall in the catchment areas measuring 64 millimetres, another water source continues to die an agonising death.
The Ncandu River has been again choked by water cabbage.
Residents took to social media last week to highlight the vast number of Pistia stratiotes (water cabbage) plants present in the river.
Many expressed disappointment in the municipality for failing to preserve the resource.
Related article: Flooding fear as river bursts its banks
“It’s been like this for the past couple of years; nothing has been done,” commented one resident. “Breaks my heart to see it.”
The lack of urgency from the municipality is also shown by a non-response to email inquiries, submitted by the Advertiser as far back as May 27.
Attempts to speak directly with the Community Services Department have borne no fruit.
Questions posed to the municipality dealt with clearing of the Ncandu’s banks, the idea of spraying of water cabbage in February this year, and a proposed Ncandu River development.
To date, no response has been given.
Also read: Christian community to pray for rain
