Eskom stage 6 could pressure water supply

The DA in Gauteng has warned that prolonged load-shedding will severely affect local water reservoirs.

Last year, Rand Water implemented level 2 water restrictions after noting that load-shedding had slowed down the filling of reservoirs leaving them critically low.

Member of the provincial legislature (MPL) Solly Msimanga said that the DA is urging all residents to use water sparingly to not risk running out of water.

“Stage 6 load-shedding will have a knock-on effect on pumping water to reservoirs and water towers, leaving them with low water levels and eventually affecting the sewer lines.

“There is an imminent risk that sewage will run into our water resources and overflow on the streets because of the impact of stage 6 load-shedding,” he said.

Level 1 restrictions prohibit watering of gardens between 06:00 and 18:00, hosing driveways or paved areas and washing cars with a hose pipe. Increased restriction levels also come with additional prohibitions and can come with higher water prices.

“We need to not only reduce our water usage but be wise in how we use it, such as recycling the water we use to wash our cars, to water our lawns and gardens,” said Msimanga.

Last year’s water restrictions and the growing power crisis have led to calls for water reservoirs to be exempt from load-shedding to avoid water interruptions and pollution or contamination of municipal water sources.

Save water with some of these tips:

– Only use a washing machine or dishwasher for a full load. The appliances use the same amount of water regardless of washing load resulting in more frequent use and more water wasted.

– Take short showers. A good rule of thumb is about 10l of water per minute come out a standard outlet in your home.

– Use a bucket for household cleaning. Washing cars or large objects with a hose can use more than a bucket of water per minute. Stick to a bucket system, one for rinsing and one for detergents and cleaning products.

– Keep a jug of water in the fridge. We often waste water letting the tap run before pouring a glass of water to get the cooler water that hasn’t been sitting in the pipes.

– Plug the sink or use a large bowl in the sink to retain water when you are working in the kitchen. This grey water can often be used in the garden too.

– Don’t run water over your food when doing cooking preparations. A bowl of water can just as effectively clean peeled vegetables as running water over them. Remember to keep meat products and vegetables separate until cooking for good kitchen hygiene.

– Turn your irrigation timer on manually when needed. It may also help to give plants more water, but less frequently, as the water goes deeper after a good soak, lasting longer and reaching the roots where it is most needed.

– Get rid of your lawn. Large lawns need a lot of water to keep them green and healthy. Indigenous water-wise ground covers and natural gardens can be stunning and a point of pride in your home.

– Don’t just leave checking your meter to city officials to track your water. Remaining conscious of how much you are using can help you identify times that water might be wasted.

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