Rand Water implements Stage 2 of water restrictions
24 October 2019
Rand Water has as of today, October 24 2019, implemented stage 2 of water restrictions to all meters across the City of Tshwane.
The percentage for stage 2 of water restrictions is between 40 and 50% and it is implemented if there is no improvement on reservoir levels after implementing stage 1 restrictions. During this period, consumers will experience low pressure. However, with the current heat wave which has increased the demand, it has become imperative for Rand Water to implement further more stringent restrictions across the whole distribution network to try and curb the demand as the reservoirs are continuing to drop.
The water utility’s system has been experiencing low water level since last month when two of its purification plants failed due to power failure as a result of veld fires. The situation was exacerbated by the malfunctioning of a valve at one of the utility’s pumping main from the Zuikerbosch purification station. This resulted in an 18 hour emergency shut-down on October 17 2019.
In order to prevent a total failure of the bulk water supply system as a result of the shut-down, Rand Water was compelled to implement restrictions to its customers that are serviced by the Palmiet system.
Tshwane residents and businesses are therefore urged to tighten up efforts of conserving water in order to ensure the control and provisioning of water supply to all.
Water conservation simply means using our limited water supply wisely and caring for it properly. While the supply seems abundant, water is not a limitless resource. Without conservation efforts, this vital resource may be exhausted.
The City urges residents to make the water conservation measures that were implemented during the initial restrictions part of a normal lifestyle.
The following hints were provided and are still applicable in terms of the partial restrictions that the City of Tshwane announced in May last year:
- Use grey water for watering gardens and flushing toilets.
- Report water leaks and burst pipes.
- Install water-saving devices.
- Where possible, install a low-flow showerhead and tap aerators.
- Use a dual-flush toilet cistern.
- Plant indigenous or drought-resistant shrubs in the garden.
- Water gardens before 06:00 or after 18:00 and only when necessary.
- Use a broom instead of a hosepipe to clean driveways or patios.
- Collect rainwater for reuse in the garden or for washing the car.
- Cover the swimming pool to reduce evaporation.
- Take a quick shower rather than a bath.
- Close a running tap while brushing teeth or shaving.
- Regularly check toilets and taps for leaks.
Residents are urged to remain aware of the scarcity of water and follow the above-mentioned tips.
Media enquiries:
MMC for Utility Services, Cllr Abel Tau
078 186 1312
Issued by Group Communication, Marketing and Events Department.