Pretoria - The City of Tshwane has joined the City of Johannesburg in implementing the water restrictions to manage water shortages due to drought, heat waves and other seasonal changes.
The restrictions follow a notice in the Government Gazette, published by the National Department of Water and Sanitation on 12 August 2016, stating that drawing water from the Integrated Vaal River System should be limited.
“The City of Tshwane is obliged to comply with the notice and reduce its water consumption by 15%. We receive 72% of our bulk water from Rand Water, but we also source 28% of our water from our own treatment plants and boreholes,” the City of Tshwane said in statement.
The restrictions specifically apply to watering gardens with a hosepipe or sprinkler from 6am to 6pm; washing of vehicles with hosepipes and filling of swimming pools.
The city has urged all its consumers to make an effort to reduce water consumption.
“Should the consumers not adhere to the restrictions as imposed by the National Department of Water and Sanitation, as well as Rand Water, then the situation will worsen and consumers will be without water for longer periods,” the City warned.
If the situation does not improve, the city warned that it will be forced to introduce stringent measures including increased tariffs and increased policing.
“All consumers are urged to adhere to the restrictions and use water sparingly. Consumers are also encouraged to use water saving tips that are distributed through flyers and through the city's various communication platforms,” said the city. – SAnews.gov.za
