Full dams don’t guarantee improved water supply – DA
DA’s Gauteng spokesperson for Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (Cogta) Nico de Jager says while the rising dam levels are encouraging news, it’s crucial to understand that higher dam levels don’t automatically translate to improved water supply in your home.

The DA in Gauteng notes the news that the Vaal Dam’s water level has increased by over 21% during the last week – a significant increase from 40% to 61.12%.
This is due to recent rainfall and an overflow from the Grootdraai Dam, which has reached its capacity and opened its sluice gates.
DA’s Gauteng spokesperson for Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (Cogta) Nico de Jager says while the rising dam levels are encouraging news, it’s crucial to understand that higher dam levels don’t automatically translate to improved water supply in your home.
According to De Jager these are the reasons:
Water Supply Challenges
– Our water delivery depends on complex reticulation systems and pumping infrastructure.
– Infrastructure limitations remain the primary challenge in ensuring consistent water supply.
– The journey from dam to tap involves multiple processing and distribution steps, all dependent on functioning infrastructure.
Despite improved dam levels, Level 1 water restrictions remain in place. These restrictions are necessary for several reasons:
– Years of neglecting infrastructure maintenance impact capacity, not just water availability, and determines your household supply.
– Maintaining responsible water usage helps manage pressure on our distribution systems.
– Sustainable water management requires long-term conservation efforts, regardless of dam levels.
De Jager urges all Gauteng residents to follow Level 1 water restrictions, implement water-saving practices in their daily routines, report water leaks and infrastructure issues promptly, and understand that infrastructure improvements are ongoing but take time and resources.
“The DA will keep pressing the Cogta to engage with Rand Water and all water entities in Gauteng. This is to ensure that water infrastructure is properly maintained and expanded, providing reliable access to water for all residents in the province.”