PLETTENBERG BAY NEWS - The severity of Bitou’s water situation has led to Level 4 water restrictions coming into effect from today, Wednesday 14 January.
Municipal spokesperson Andile Namntu said in a statement the tighter restrictions are necessary “to protect what remains of our water supply” and to ensure fair access for all residents.
Bitou Municipality executive and administrative leadership met with the Plettenberg Bay Ratepayers Association on Tuesday to share the municipality’s plan to manage the growing water crisis - and to explain the difficult, but necessary steps now being taken to protect the remaining water supply.
“Our water situation is serious. With very little rainfall, extremely low dam levels and reduced river flow, the municipality estimates that only about 40 days of water remain in the Roodefontein Dam, which could take us to 14 March 2026 if nothing changes,” said Namntu.
At the same time, water use remains too high. Daily consumption is currently 14.25 megalitres, while usage has to be reduced to between seven and nine megalitres to secure water for essential services, businesses and households.
Excessive amounts
“To stretch the water we still have, the municipality has reduced the monthly household water allowance from 15 kilolitres to 10 kilolitres, with effect from Tuesday 13 January.
Data shows that some households are using excessive amounts of water, consuming between 70 and 409 kilolitres per month.
Notices will be sent to these households informing them of enforcement measures, including the installation of water restrictors,” said Namntu.
He confirmed that the desalination plant is fully operational and continues to support the water system, together with municipal boreholes.
“These measures help, but the current demand outweighs the supply capacity.”
The Plettenberg Bay Ratepayers Association acknowledged the municipality’s plan and expressed support for water-saving efforts through community awareness and co-operation.
“Every litre saved now helps protect our town, our economy, and our future,” Namntu said.
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