MUST READ: Is NKZN facing down its own Day Zero?
Experts believe if municipalities and residents fail to conserve water, it could lead to resource shortages in future.
Day Zero – a term which strikes fear in the hearts of Cape residents.
Yet the question remains: could other parts of the country face their own day of water reckoning?
For now, there appears to be no cause for alarm.
However, the example of Cape Town should teach consumers and municipalities to prepare now.
If the water situation in KwaZulu-Natal changes dramatically, taps could one day run dry.
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At present, the Chelmsford/ Ntshingwayo Dam is holding at just below 90 per cent.
It is worth noting water security is never guaranteed.
Should drought conditions return, the situation may change dramatically.
According to national media reports, municipalities within KZN were only saving five per cent of water resources, compared to the preferred 15 per cent.
Heavy rainfall was also no reason to stop conserving water.
In a previous interview, an official from Newcastle Municipality said water conservation was a lifestyle, not an event. The municipality also appreciated cooperation of consumers.
“Saving water is a responsibility for all, and it begins with you and me.”
Both the municipality and Department of Water Affairs were approached for comment last week.
To date, no response was given.
Residents are however urged to save water where possible, and to bear in mind water remains a dwindling natural resource.
Here are some tips for saving water in daily life:
– Turn off the tap when brushing your teeth
– It takes less water to shower than to run a bath – while the water is heating up, place a bucket to catch additional water for the garden
– Ensure the dishwasher is full before you turn it on
– Water the garden in the early morning or late evening to limit evaporation
– Install a pool cover to reduce evaporation from your pool
– Immediately report any water wastage or burst pipes to the municipality: 086 014 4144.
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