Water and Sanitation Minister, Senzo Mchunu announced that the UMkhomazi multi-billion water project has been revived and is now in progress. Image: iStock
Johannesburg faces water scarcity as reservoirs remain low
Johannesburg several reservoirs have low water levels due to unsustainable demand, leaving some areas of the city without water.
Water and Sanitation Minister, Senzo Mchunu announced that the UMkhomazi multi-billion water project has been revived and is now in progress. Image: iStock
Johannesburg’s reservoirs are struggling with low water levels as a result of the city’s excessive demand for the scarce resource, which has caused several areas of the city to go without water.
According to Joburg Water, the increased demand for water was brought on by high levels of consumption brought on by warmer temperatures and a lack of rain.
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The entity sent water tanks to Westbury, Hamilton Street, Coronation, Garden, and De Villiers Streets, as well as Turffontein, Steytler Road.
Level 1 water restrictions, which are in effect from 1 September to 31 March each year due to high demand, were also introduced by the City.
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The entity has also advised its citizens to utilize water wisely.
Level 1 water restrictions in Johannesburg
Level 1 water restrictions ban residents from using hosepipes to fill swimming pools or water features between the hours of 6 AM. and 6 pm, water gardens, wash cars, or clean driveways.
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“Instead, the use of greywater is encourage. This is to ensure that systems are kept stable throughout coming months.
“Failure to reduce water consumption, will lead to the implementation of extreme measures to control the excessive increase. We therefore request communities to be ambassadors for accountable water use,” said utility spokesperson Nombuso Shabalala.
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Here are simple water-saving habits to implement into your daily routine:
- Do not leave taps dripping
- Wash your car on the grass with grey water as this will water your lawn at the same time
- Shorten your showering time
- Use a glass of water to rinse when brushing your teeth
- Take shallow baths and avoid filling your bath to a depth greater than 100mm
