Rand Water has lifted stage 2 water restrictions in three Gauteng metros after stabilising reservoir levels from 30% to above 60%.
Recent rain has helped to stabilise water systems in Johannesburg, Tshwane and Ekurhuleni metros which were experiencing water cuts along with load shedding.
“Following the high-water consumption brought about by the high temperatures and subsequent restrictions, reservoir levels in Rand Water systems have stabilised and increased from 30% to above 60% currently,” Rand Water said on Tuesday evening.
“Stabilisation of the systems, assisted by good rains, has been a joint and collaborative effort by Rand Water and the three metros.”
The metros were forced to implement water restrictions due to high consumption. The water utility also could not pump enough water to meet the demand due to blackouts.
Rand Water said on Tuesday that during consultation with the three metros, it was agreed that best water management practices are put in place to ensure that systems are kept stable throughout the coming hot months.
“Through these collaborative efforts, the metros have managed to reduce consumption and manage own systems effectively and efficiently. Therefore, reduced consumption and leak repairs will be the new order.
The utility said municipalities effectively reduced consumption and are managing their own systems efficiently. It thanked residents for adhering to restrictions.
“Rand Water would like to thank the metros and its citizens for their cooperation during this time and hope that this watershed moment will lead towards permanent wise use of portable water.”
Meanwhile, on Tuesday, the South African Weather Service (SAWS) said the rainfall in the country will continue for the rest of the week, as a cut-off low pressure system dominates the central and eastern parts of the country.
“This will result to scattered to widespread thundershowers from today Tuesday until Saturday.”
Source: The Citizen, ENCA, image from Twitter: @StarFMNews919
