Ekurhuleni imposes water restrictions
The City of Ekurhuleni has imposed water restrictions on residents with considerable fines for non-compliance.
The restrictions are due to the “persisting heat wave sweeping through Gauteng and the delayed seasonal rains, which has caused acute water supply interruption in parts [of] Ekurhuleni”, the city said in a statement on Sunday.
Restrictions put in place included a ban on filling swimming pools and irrigating gardens with hosepipes and/or sprinklers at all times. These activities would be regarded as “unauthorised” until the restrictions were lifted.
Mayoral committee member for water and energy Doctor Xhakaza said in the statement penalties for non-compliance would be levied “as promulgated by Ekurhuleni metropolitan municipality”.
“Should consumers be in contravention of these restrictions by watering their gardens or washing their vehicles with hosepipes, a fine of up to R6196 will be issued to the households, while business consumers will be fined a fee of R12,626, as well as related administration costs.
“In reducing your consumption, you will be contributing to our efforts to keep the amount of water in our reservoirs at acceptable levels, thus ensuring a consistent supply,” Xhakaza said.
Residents were also encouraged to refrain from “water washing of pavements and cars with hosepipes”, and to reduce showering time, repair waterpipe leaks, including leaking toilet cisterns, avoid flushing the toilet unnecessarily, and report burst pipes immediately to the city on 0860-54-3000.