‘Water challenges’ in some towns as stage 6 load-shedding takes toll on infrastructure

Municipalities are urging residents to use water sparingly as stage 6 load-shedding starts taking a toll on infrastructure and the provision of services in some areas where water resources are already stretched in the Western Cape.

“Dysselsdorp, we urgently need your help to avert a water crisis. Due to level-6 load-shedding, pumps cannot get enough water into the reservoir quickly to provide water to you. We urgently ask that you limit your water consumption to absolute necessary use,” was the call made to residents on Thursday by Oudtshoorn mayor Chris Macpherson.

The provincial government confirmed municipalities had also raised concerns about the increased cost of diesel to keep backup generators running for longer.

“The costs associated with load-shedding keep piling up. We are concerned about water reservoirs that cannot fill sufficiently with subsequent pipe bursts due to uneven pressure in the pipe networks when normal levels are restored,” said local government, environmental affairs and development planning minister Anton Bredell.

“Sewerage systems are designed for a constant flow of water, and interruptions due to load-shedding can cause blockages and spills.