George water crisis: Municipality urges residents to conserve water

The Garden Route Dam storage level currently stands at 61.88%, reflecting a steady decline due to limited rainfall in recent months. 

Only 4mm of rain was recorded between October 7 and 13, highlighting the need for all residents and businesses in George to conserve water and strictly adhere to existing water restrictions.

George Municipality said in response, it has established a Water Management Task Team to strengthen the city’s Water-Saving Programme, focusing on drought response, infrastructure planning, and public awareness. 

The team includes representatives from Civil Engineering Services, Community Safety and Mobility, Planning and Development, Communication, Community Services, Technical Engineering Services, Finance, and Corporate Services.

At a recent meeting, the Task Team reviewed the current water situation and key actions, including enforcing water restrictions, promoting responsible use, and ensuring municipal facilities lead by example.

Discussions also covered private sector compliance, leak management, infrastructure upgrades, and collaboration on catchment management to secure a sustainable water supply for all residents.

Executive Mayor Alderman Jackie von Brandis said the Municipality is taking proactive steps to manage the situation.

“We are entering a period of increasing water stress, and every drop counts,” she said. “This is a collective responsibility, the Municipality, residents, and businesses must all play their part to protect our most precious resource. Our focus is on sustainability, not only for today but for future generations.”

Director of Civil Engineering Services, Jannie Koegelenberg, who leads the Water Management Task Team, highlighted coordinated efforts across departments. 

“We urge all residents, businesses, schools, and sports facilities to review their water use and reduce wastage wherever possible.”

Residents are reminded that Level 2B Water Restrictions remain in effect. Key measures include: No mechanical or automatic irrigation or sprinkler systems, Handheld buckets may be used at any time for watering gardens.

• Handheld garden hoses may only be used within designated time frames:
• September–April: 6pm -8pm 18:00–20:00
• May–August: 5pm–7pm
• Retirement facilities: 4pm –6pm (year-round)

• Even-numbered households: Mondays and Thursdays
• Uneven-numbered households: Tuesdays and Fridays
• No washing of vehicles with hosepipes, except at formal car washes
• No filling of swimming pools or cleaning outside surfaces using potable water

Residents or businesses seeking exemption from specific restrictions may apply in writing. Forms are available from the Civil Engineering Services Directorate, Old Town Hall, corner of Market and York Streets, or by contacting Ms. G. van Niekerk at 044 801 9354 or [email protected].

Get your news on the go, click here to join the Cape Argus News WhatsApp channel.

Cape Argus