City residents face stricter water restrictions amid heatwave

KIMBERLEY residents need to brace for tighter water restrictions as the Sol Plaatje Municipality implements a supply recovery programme aimed at stabilising depleted reservoir levels.

The new measures come into effect from Wednesday, December 11, at 9pm, as the municipality grapples with high water demand worsened by the ongoing heatwave.

In a public notice issued by municipal manager Thapelo Matlala, the local authority outlined several prohibitions to conserve water, including:

• Watering of gardens, lawns, grassed areas, flowerbeds, sports fields, bowling greens, and similar areas

• Topping up or filling fountains and ornamental ponds

• Filling of swimming and paddling pools

• Washing of paved areas, walls, roofs, buildings, and other similar structures

Current levels at the Newton Reservoirs reveal that tanks are operating at 54% to 75% of their capacity, significantly below the desired targets needed to ensure stable supply.

According to the municipality, it is currently producing an average of 100 megalitres of water per day, falling short of the required 115 megalitres needed to meet the city’s demand amidst the ongoing heatwave.

The Riverton Water Treatment Plant, which has a daily treatment capacity of 165 megalitres, is also currently operating at just 60% capacity as refurbishments continue.

To manage supply, the municipality has reintroduced daytime water interruptions, effective daily from noon to 5pm. This is in addition to the ongoing nightly water cuts from 9pm to 4am. Residents are also urged to use water sparingly during supply hours to help stabilise the reservoir levels.

The municipality has acknowledged the inconvenience caused and assured residents that they will be kept informed of reservoir levels throughout the holiday season. "Your understanding and co-operation are highly appreciated," said Matlala.

Residents are encouraged to adhere to these restrictions to ensure water remains available for essential use. The municipality reminded the public that these measures are legally enforceable under Section 4 of the Water Services Act 108 of 1997 and the municipality's by-laws.