YELLOWWOOD Park residents will soon feel the pinch of water restrictions as the eThekwini Municipality has implemented an eight-hour daily water rationing schedule.

Water will be cut off daily from 20:00 to 04:00. This will affect communities in the southern west region, including Yellowwood Park, Havenside and central parts of eThekwini.

Also read: eThekwini clarifies meaning of water curtailment

The municipality implemented further water rationing in areas that are supplied from Reservoir 2 at Durban Heights Treatment Works. This is due to the storage capacity of Reservoir 2 not keeping up to the minimum level. These areas are in the South and Central parts of the City.

In a statement the municipality said the demand for water in eThekwini continues to increase and outstrip available supply, putting significant strain on the system.

“This is exacerbated by a reduction in bulk water supply since uMngeni-uThukela Water implemented its water curtailment in October last year. The City has been implementing water rationing across its water network to manage demand each time there are major water supply constraints.

Also read: Bluff residents urged to use water wisely

“Rationing is done to build storage. Water is reopened when there are sufficient water levels. Rationing also ensures equitable water supply as it is done rotationally,” eThekwini said in a statement.

The rationing schedule will be shared on the City’s communication platforms.

The municipality reiterated its call against the connection of static tanks to the municipal reticulation network.

“The effect of too many static tanks is that available water supply is not shared equitably as water fills up static tanks first which contributes to reservoirs getting depleted quickly.

Also read: eThekwini Municipality introduces new water dashboard

Residents are encouraged to practise rainwater harvesting for additional storage.

Other interventions being implemented by the municipality include the installation of restrictors across eThekwini to enforce responsible water usage, identifying and repairing leaks, and checking all control valves and repairing and replacing them where needed.

“Until water augmentation projects are complete, eThekwini is not able to receive additional water supply from uMngeni-uThukela Water. Immediate improvements in the reliability of supply and water availability can be achieved through relatively small acts of saving water,” reads the statement.

Stay abreast of municipal news by downloading eThekwini Municipality’s Mobile App to log faults:

• Send a WhatsApp to 073 148 3477.
• Alternatively, call the toll-free number on 080 311 1111 or email Eservices@durban.gov.za.

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