Every Drop Counts: Knysna escalates water measures

KNYSNA NEWS - "Every drop matters, and we need your co-operation to prevent water restrictions from escalating further.

Being water-smart - and teaching your children how to respect this precious resource - is one of the greatest gifts you can give this holiday season."

This reminder comes as the Knysna Council yesterday formally declared the Greater Knysna Municipal area a water-stressed region. The decision follows increasing strain on local water resources and enables national and provincial authorities to accelerate and assess vital interventions needed to secure sustainable, long-term water supply for the community.

Mayor Thando Matika emphasised the gravity of the situation. “The Garden Route District Disaster Management Centre, working closely with our Local Disaster Management Unit, has been tasked with co-ordinating all short- and medium-term measures needed to stabilise the system and protect our remaining water resources.”

Level 4 water restrictions introduced

To curb demand and safeguard available supply, Council has approved the implementation of Level 4 water restrictions, which include:

Strengthened public campaigns about water conservation
Throttling of water zones where necessary
Installation of water-restricting/management devices
Domestic consumption limited to 6kl per household per month
Businesses required to reduce consumption by 50% compared to the previous year’s monthly average (excluding car washes)
Construction companies, car washes, and nurseries to use alternative water sources only
Activation of the stage 3 drought tariff, although Council resolved to retain the stage 2 tariff
Health and correctional facilities required to install water tanks, which municipal tankers will fill.

Matika noted that local infrastructure is under intense pressure. "Our teams are dealing with numerous water emergencies, particularly in Knysna. Overtime has been increased to 60 hours to ensure we can respond effectively."

Water awareness campaign rolled out
The municipality has launched a broad water-awareness campaign across radio, print, and digital platforms.

"Our goal is to remind both residents and visitors that responsible water use is essential," said Matika. "Freshwater shortages are a global reality, and our habits must change permanently if we hope to secure our future."

Law enforcement to ensure compliance
Law enforcement officers will be conducting visible patrols throughout the holiday season."With an influx of visitors expected, we need everyone to understand and comply with the restrictions," Matika stressed. "This is one of our busiest times of the year, and using water sparingly is crucial."

Emergency measures to support high-risk areas
To support communities most affected by water shortages, the municipality will acquire twenty 5 000-litre water tanks for strategic placement in critical wards.

Contingency planning includes securing fuel, fittings, rental of water trucks, and other emergency resources.

"While the municipality is doing all it can, the success of these measures depends heavily on your co-operation," Matika said. "Your actions in the coming weeks will have a direct impact on how we manage this crisis."

How you can help: practical ways to save water at home