uThukela has released the following statement regarding the current drought conditions and how this impacts on the need for intensified water restrictions:
Water consumers are reminded that the drought situation in the district is getting worse by the day. Some dams and rivers have virtually dried up, and water levels have dropped drastically.
This situation calls for the intensification of water restrictions in order to save and share the little water we have until we pass through this “water-stress” period.
The Department of Water & Sanitation predicts that the first rains will fall in December.
It should be noted that the district municipality has insufficient water tankers, especially in areas serviced by a piped water system. These water tankers normally service areas that have no infrastructure.
The municipality currently has no hired water tankers, as the contract was terminated some time ago due to insufficient funds. Consumers are therefore once again reminded to please use water sparingly.
Business consumers, including car wash businesses, are requested to implement innovative water-saving measures such as recycling of used water, etc. This request applies to car wash businesses in all towns, townships and rural areas across the district.
Also read: uThukela to stop pumping water from golf course area to Observation Hill on a daily basis
Also read: Interruptions to affect areas receiving water from Ezakheni Treatment Plant
The municipality urges consumers to reduce their water demand so as to sustain a continuous water supply during this drought period. Consumers are further requested to fix water leaks on their premises and report water leaks outside their premises on the uThukela call centre number, which is 0860104257
Any person who contravenes water restrictions will be liable to pay a fine of R2000 in terms of Section 57 of the Water Services By-laws of uThukela District Municipality.
uThukela officials such as Environmental Health Practitioners, Environmental Health Assistants, Water Agents and Compliance Officers will monitor adherence to the above-mentioned water restrictions. This will be done by visiting consumers’ premises and assessing compliance.
Consumers found to be in contravention of the water restrictions will be fined. Further transgressions will lead to the installation of water restrictive devices at the premises and prosecution if water wastage persists.
Consumers are also encouraged to store water in containers. This will assist in terms of having enough water in your household in times of unexpected water cuts.
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