Knysna intensifies water security

Update

KNYSNA NEWS - Knysna Municipality has intensified its water security initiatives as part of a co-ordinated effort to safeguard the town's water supply and prevent the onset of Day Zero.

While infrastructure upgrades are being accelerated, the municipality emphasises that the most immediate and effective way to stabilise the system is through responsible water use by residents, businesses and visitors.

A variety of operational, technical and planning measures are under way, co-ordinated daily through the Joint Operations Centre (JOC) and in close collaboration with provincial and national departments.

The Western Cape Department of Local Government continues to provide technical guidance and support for these interventions. Knysna Mayor Thando Matika said:

"We are navigating one of the most challenging water periods in recent memory. The municipality is working tirelessly to protect our water supply. Every intervention, from infrastructure upgrades to operational measures, is aimed at strengthening our system and reducing demand. Yet, the success of these efforts depends on responsible water use by everyone in the community."

Strengthening operational capacity

To improve response times and reduce losses, additional personnel have been deployed. Since 19 January, five extra plumbers have been operational, supported by six water meter installers deployed from 15 January.

Thirty general assistants are being phased in, with 10 already active since 23 January and the remaining 20 joining this week. Furthermore, 1 000 new conventional water meters have been ordered and will be installed upon arrival.

Infrastructure and supply measures

Key infrastructure projects are progressing despite tight timelines. The borehole refur-bishment tender closed on 16 January.

Alternative pumping schemes from Charlesford and the new Salt River stations, supported by a R20m funding request from the Department of Water and Sanitation (DWS), await implementation approval.

Additionally, Water Conservation and Demand Management initiatives have secured funding as of 24 January, with a service provider appointed and the service level agreement finalised.

Monitoring reservoirs and river flows

Overall reservoir levels remain healthy, with any reservoir below 60% being supplemented via tankers.

The flow of the Knysna River is being closely monitored, and sandbagging at the weir has temporarily extended holding capacity.

At present, Akkerkloof Dam holds less than three weeks' supply at current usage levels. Residents are urged to report leaks promptly to 060 998 7032.

Emergency tankering and augmentation

Delivering water by tank from PG Bison, Gift of the Givers, and the Knysna Mosque borehole is supplementing supply, delivering approximately 730 000 kilolitres since Friday. Debris removal and de-silting at the balancing dam are improving pumping efficiency, while technical teams explore further alternatives.

Consumption reduction critical

Current consumption averages 10 mega-litres per day, two megalitres above the eight-megalitre target. "Infrastructure measures can only go so far," Matika stressed. "Substantial reductions in daily consumption are essential to avoid Day Zero. Every litre saved counts."

Day Zero preparedness

Comprehensive Day Zero planning is ongoing, with daily water requirements estimated at 10 megalitres and emergency tankering projected at five megalitres per day. The municipality continues to reprioritise resources, communicate water-saving measures, and urge full compliance with restrictions.

Previous articles:

‘We bring you the latest Garden Route, Hessequa, Karoo news’