Nelson Mandela Bay residents are being urged to curb their water usage as the region braces for an extended period of high temperatures. Despite current dam levels exceeding 80%, the Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality warns that consumption patterns are cause for concern.
February is traditionally the hottest month, and water usage typically peaks during this time. The Municipality, therefore, reminds residents that water restrictions remain in effect, even with improved dam levels. In December, the Council approved a shift from Part C to Part B restrictions, reflecting the increased water availability. However, the Municipality stresses that a water-wise lifestyle is essential to prevent future crises.
“We are making a courtesy reminder to residents and businesses to keep their water usage in check. The high dam levels can make us think that we will never be in a crisis again. However, if consumption remains high, we will find ourselves exactly where we were,” said Member of the Mayoral Committee for Infrastructure and Engineering, Councillor Buyelwa Mafaya. “As a water-scarce region, let’s adopt a water lifestyle, especially during this time when we are losing water in our dams due to high temperatures.”
Current Water Usage Trends
The average daily water usage in the Bay currently sits at 348 million litres, often exceeding the 340 million litre mark. This high consumption is partly attributed to the soaring seasonal temperatures experienced during December and expected to persist through January and February.
Key Restrictions and Guidelines
To manage water resources effectively, the Municipality is implementing measures under Section 4 of the Water Services Act 108 of 1997 and Clause 31 of the Water and Sanitation Services By-Law:
- Tariffs:
- Domestic and commercial water usage will be charged at Part B tariffs.
- Targeted Usage:
- Domestic water usage is suggested to be 50 litres per person per day.
- Water Management Devices:
- Excessive domestic water usage will result in the installation of water management devices to replace existing meters.
- Prohibited Activities:
- Municipal water cannot be used to water gardens, wash cars, wash down walls or paving, or top up pools.
- Water Pressure Reduction:
- Pressure in the water reticulation system will be reduced at critical points in each zone.
- Borehole Registration:
- All borehole users must register with the Municipality and comply with legislative requirements. Selling borehole water intended for on-site use is prohibited.
- Swimming Pools:
- Only targeted municipal swimming pools are permitted to be filled with municipal water.
- Plumbing Regulations:
- Any plumbing connected to alternative water sources must comply with By-Law requirements.
- Special Concessions:
- All previous concessions are void; reapplication is required.
How Residents Can Help
The Municipality encourages all water users to adopt water-saving habits:
- Use water sparingly.
- Re-use and recycle water wherever possible.
- Check for leaks by ensuring your water meter does not run when no water is in use. Leaks must be repaired promptly to avoid high bills.
Reporting Water Leaks
Residents can report water leaks through the following channels:
- Call: 0800 20 50 50
- NMBM App
- Email: waterleaks@mandelametro.gov.za
Support for ATTP Households
ATTP (Assistance to the Poor Program) households will receive water management devices to replace their meters if consumption exceeds the free basic water limit approved by Council.
A Community Effort
By taking simple steps to conserve water, Nelson Mandela Bay residents can help ensure sustainable water usage during the high-temperature season and beyond. Together, the community can safeguard this precious resource and avoid future water crises.
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