Johannesburg residents have been urged to reduce water consumption as Rand Water’s Eikenhof System is under ”severe strain”.
In a statement, Johannesburg Water said water consumption increased, which has now affected the supply.
Johannesburg Water said Rand Water informed several municipalities to curb the demand on the Eikenhof System as the high consumption would result in a collapse, which could see little to no water supply to areas.
The areas affected are:
- The Deep South (Orange Farm, Ennerdale and Lawley areas);
- Soweto;
- Randburg/Roodepoort and
- Central (Southdale and Langlaagte).
“Although the Eikenhof System may not affect the Sandton, Midrand and South Hills systems, customers in those areas are advised to use water sparingly, ” Johannesburg Water said in the statement.
It further stated that the rise in water usage was putting strain on the system, resulting in Rand Water battling to maintain its reservoir’s capacity.
“All Rand Water primary and secondary stations are operating at their maximum capacity. Reservoir levels are, however, at their lowest, resulting in supply pressures being low and high-lying areas having low to no water supply,” said Johannesburg Water.
The water utility said earlier communication was sent to residents after the company noted with concern the high water consumption.
“This was reiterated by Rand Water who cautioned the entity that if consumption is not reduced, extreme measures would have to be instituted,” Joburg Water said.
This coincided with the the City of Johannesburg implementing Level 1 water restrictions from 1 September to 31 March annually.
“This is to ensure a continuous and sustainable water supply in the coming months,” Johannesburg Water said.
Source : News24
