The current water shortage in South Africa touches all of us
While the worldwide consumption of water is rising at double the rate of the population, the amount of freshwater remains at only 2.5 percent of all the water resources in the world. Over the last few years, this has become an all too familiar scenario right across our country. The current situation, firstly directing attention to Cape Town, that has been required to adapt to severe water restrictions and now also the Eastern Cape that is experiencing a staggering drop in dam levels, proves that no town or city is immune to the water shortfall that has hit our nation.
Free State affected by water shortage
Despite the recent rainfall that has slightly improved the water levels in major dams, residents are still encouraged to use water sparingly, responsibly and adhere to the current water restrictions imposed on their respective areas. With at least 20 towns affected with water shortages, be it lack of water, water disruptions, unhygienic water or empty dams, the Free State is still not in the clear as levels decline daily. For example, the four main dams, Welbedacht dam, Knellpoort Dam, Groothoek Dam and the Rustfontein Dam that provides water to outlying dams that again provide water for the Botshabelo, Bloemfontein and Thaba Nchu areas, have had excessive declines in water levels for the period from January 2017 to January 2018 – with a rainy season included.
Water-saving efforts a must
It is important that residents implement water saving tactics in and around their homes. This means counting litres and being accountable for every drop of water – ensuring that none goes to waste. There are still people that do not comprehend the seriousness of the situation. Saving water is no longer an option – it’s a requirement.
Become Water Wise
Rainwater and Greywater harvesting systems are both effective ways in which you can use and reuse water that does not come from the mainline water supply, thereby reducing water usage from near-empty dams. They are affordable, effortless to maintain and easy to install.