BITOU | PLETTENBERG BAY NEWS – Despite good rainfall in recent months, compared to previous years, Bitou has implemented stricter water restrictions from Monday 3 April.
This is according to the Bitou Municipality because of a further drop in the Roodefontein Dam level to below 66%.
After the municipality implemented Level 1 restrictions in February this year when the dam level dropped below 80%, the further drop in water has prompted the municipality to increase the restrictions to Level 2.
"This is to manage and prevent the increased risk of the possibility of water shortages," Municipal Manager Mbulelo Memani said. He added that this was in line with the municipality's drought management policy. "The latest seasonal forecast for significant rainfall for the period April, May and June 2023, according to the South African Weather Service, remains below average."
Restrictions on water use
He further said that the upgraded restrictions meant that potable water obtained from the municipality's water supply system was prohibited for various activities including the use of hosepipe.
Hosepipes cannot be used to water gardens, clean structures, equipment and vehicles.
Filling or topping up swimming pools, ponds or splash pools are also now prohibited. Memani added that automatic swimming pool water fillers were no longer allowed to be used.
Residents are also prohibited from using automatic irrigation sprinkler and drip systems. Automatic urinal flushing systems may also not be used.
Memani said all households are now limited to using up to 15kl of water per month. Should residents not stick to this limit, a flow meter restrictor could be installed the limit the use up to 15kl per month. "A fine being 100% penalty on council approved rates for monthly consumption in excess of 15kl per month per household, will be implemented."
Exemptions for water use
There are however exemptions including the use of reclaimed water or water obtained from sources other than the municipality's water supply system. Proof of the augmentation source may be requested by the municipality.
Memani urged residents to erect signs where water from sources other than the municipality's water supply system is used for irrigation. Land owners must also notify the engineering services directorate in writing of the existence of boreholes on their properties. They also need to apply to the department of water and sanitation for the intention to sink boreholes and also notify the municipality.
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