Cape Town warns indigent households over water use as dam levels decline

Cape Town's municipal government has cautioned low-income residents about their water consumption as reservoir levels continue to dwindle. While no formal water restrictions have been imposed, registered indigent households that use more than 15,000 litres of water each month for two consecutive months may face warnings before their supply is cut off.

Mayoral committee member Zahid Badroodien explained that the city is ramping up its measures to curb excessive water use among indigent customers, given the current low dam levels. "The City issues warning letters and SMS messages to properties with consumption exceeding 15,000 litres. This is one of the City’s proactive water saving efforts to help registered indigent residents use less water," he stated.

The SMS notifications will be sent to households that exceed the limit next month or face supply restrictions. Badroodien emphasized that no water restrictions have been implemented yet, but if such a decision were made, the city would inform residents. Water and Sanitation Minister Pemmy Majodina hinted at ongoing modelling efforts to determine potential restrictions in the Western Cape as dam levels have been declining.

The assessment will consider factors such as hydrological conditions, water demand, and stakeholder input before making a final decision on implementing water restrictions. A recent online water webinar provided updates on Cape Town's water situation, but the decision on implementing water restrictions would ultimately be made by the Department of Water and Sanitation.

Badroodien noted that by the end of the rainy season in October, dam levels must be at least 80% to avoid implementing water restrictions. The department also took into account projected urban and agricultural water use and seasonal weather forecasts. Badroodien stated that current estimates indicate a need for a 10% reduction in household consumption throughout the upcoming summer season and into winter.

He highlighted the city's current low rainfall and an anticipated drier, hotter summer, emphasizing the importance of reducing water usage to ensure that dam levels remain sufficient for the next winter.