SEDIBENG.- The ongoing hot weather, driven by an active El Niño, has significantly increased water demand across the municipality.
Following Rand Water’s recent over-consumption warning, the Emfuleni Local Municipality (ELM) has urgently called on all consumers to reduce water use immediately to prevent the system from collapsing.
Sebokeng and Evaton are already affected.
“Reducing water consumption is therefore critical to prevent total system collapse and prolonged, widespread outages,” said ELM’s Chuchi Radebe.
Radebe further explained that areas such as Evaton and Sebokeng are already affected by water restrictions.
“Voluntary and immediate water-saving efforts by residents will help communities avoid more severe municipal restrictions,” he warned.
Radebe further announced that, to secure continuous access to drinking water for all residents, ELM, through Metsi-a-Lekoa, is launching a Water-Saving Programme.
The situation is serious.
“Every resident and business is urged to carefully review their water usage and make a deliberate effort to eliminate wastage and non-essential consumption. The success of this programme depends on widespread public cooperation and a thorough review of both household and municipal water use.”
The ELM appeals to all residents to use water sparingly and only for basic needs, particularly during
peak demand periods:
• 06:00 – 08:30
• 12:00 – 15:00
• 17:00 – 21:00
Practical steps to reduce water waste:
• Fix leaks promptly – repair dripping taps and silent toilet leaks, which can waste thousands of litres each year.
• Change outdoor habits – water gardens only in the early morning, use drip irrigation where possible, and plant drought-resistant indigenous species.
• Optimise household use – run washing machines and dishwashers only with full loads and avoid unnecessary pre-rinsing.
Residents are requested to report water leaks and burst pipes immediately to Metsi-a-Lekoa Customer Care on 016 065 0030 / 31 / 35 / 37.
Residents are also reminded to pay for their water services.
“The situation is serious, and collective action is essential to protect the water supply for all communities in Emfuleni,” Radebe concluded.
