The City of Tshwane has issued a stark warning about residents and businesses increasing water consumption despite repeated calls for conservation. According to Selby Bokaba, the city’s spokesperson, this surge in usage threatens to destabilise the city’s bulk water supply system.
“We have been urging customers to use water sparingly, but consumption remains high,” Bokaba said.
“This behaviour is putting the city’s bulk water system under severe strain and may lead to the municipality’s system running dry and eventually collapsing.”
Rand Water system under pressure
A significant portion of Tshwane’s water supply, around 79%, is provided by Rand Water. However, the city’s demand has exceeded its licensed allocation, with Tshwane using 800 million litres per day—18% more than allowed under its agreement with Rand Water.
“The water utility is pumping far more than it should,” Bokaba added.
“If the current consumption trend continues, stricter water restrictions will be imposed, possibly moving to Level 2 or higher. This will affect consumers financially due to increased water tariffs.”
Current water restrictions in place
Bokaba emphasised that residents must adhere to existing Level 1 water restrictions. These include prohibitions on using hosepipes for garden irrigation between 6:00 and 18:00, washing vehicles, cleaning patios or driveways, and filling swimming pools or water features.
“Punitive measures will be imposed against transgressors,” he warned, urging residents to take the situation seriously.
Financial impact of stricter restrictions
If water consumption doesn’t decrease, the city may be forced to raise restrictions to higher levels. This move would not only limit water use further but also increase costs for consumers. Level 2 restrictions would bring harsher penalties for misuse, and tariffs could rise significantly.
How will this impact households and businesses in the long run?
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