Indefinite water throttling ‘a challenge’ to health sector

The department said that even though contingency measures are in place to tackle any water supply issues, it remains concerned about the possible impact of a reduced water supply at night.

Water and Sanitation Minister Pemmy Majodina announced the implementation of reduced water supply in Johannesburg on Monday.

It would see the water supply in the city throttled from 9 pm to 4 am daily for an indefinite period, to reduce consumption and stabilise reservoirs.

Gauteng Health Department spokesperson Motalatale Modiba told Jacaranda FM News that they are concerned about the fact that it would last for an indefinite period. 

“The department depends on a stable water supply from municipalities and water utilities. Hence why, we are in constant communication with municipalities and utilities; as and when there are challenges, the municipalities will continue supplying our facilities using water tankers.”

Modiba stated that the department's water storage remained adequate, with water tankers at clinics and reservoirs at hospitals providing 24 to 48 hours of uninterrupted supply in the event of water maintenance projects or supply interruptions.

“We also want to join the call to inform the public of using water sparingly. We need to be wiser in terms of our water usage given that there have been numerous announcements made about water challenges that are currently facing the province,” Modiba said.

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