Rand Water implements water restrictions

Wednesday, October 28, 2015

Pretoria – Due to increased water demand caused by persistent high temperatures, the City of Tshwane, City of Johannesburg and Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Municipalities have started implementing water restrictions.

Rand Water has issued the two cities and the municipality a notification stating that its supply pipeline servicing the areas is under severe strain due to increased water demand.

“The lack of rainfall in Gauteng is exacerbating the situation. The high water demand will cause localised problems in the City of Johannesburg, City of Tshwane and the Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Municipality,” said Rand Water in a statement.

The temporary water restrictions, implemented with immediate effect, include watering gardens with hosepipes or a sprinkler system between 6am and 6pm, washing vehicles with hosepipes and filling swimming pools.

Rand Water warned that should the restrictions not be adhered to, the situation may worsen.

The City of Tshwane has warned residents that temporary water restrictions will be implemented across the city in terms of Clause 19 of the Water Supply Bylaws, as published in the Gauteng Provincial Gazette, dated 24 July 2014 notice 468.

The water restrictions will be implemented until further notice.

Consumers can make use of the following tips to save water:

  • Turn the tap off between washing your face, brushing your teeth or shaving.
  • Taking a five-minute shower a day, instead of a bath. If you prefer to bath, don't fill up the bath tub.
  • Use low-flow showerheads, dual-flush toilet mechanisms and water-efficient washing machines.
  • Kettles should not be filled to the brim but with just enough water for your needs. This will reduce your electricity bill too.
  • Don't over-fill containers like cooking pots, as this may result in using more energy to heat the water.
  • Reducing the toilet flush volume alone can save 20% of total water consumption.
  • Fix a leaking toilet otherwise it can waste up to 100 000 litres of water in one year.
  • Avoid flushing the toilet unnecessarily. Dispose of tissues, insects and other waste in the trash rather than the toilet.
  • Use "grey water" - used water from baths, washing machines and other safe sources - to flush your toilet.
  • Do not over-fill or excessively backwash your swimming pool.
  • Use a bucket rather than a hose to wash your car. If you have to use a hose, use a sprayer that can be turned off in-between spraying the car.

SAnews.gov.za