2016-05-12 – WATER RESTRICTIONS
Johannesburg Water has confirmed that level two water restrictions which were implemented in November 2015, are still in place. They have modified the times that water usage is restricted for the winter months to between 08h00 and 16h00. Previously watering and irrigation was only allowed between 18h00 and 06h00.
In terms of the restrictions, the filling of swimming pools and using a hosepipe to wash cars or paving is prohibited at all times.
These restrictions are unlikely to be lifted for some time – the Vaal Dam is less than 45% full compared to 76% at the same time last year. It is more likely that the restrictions will increase in severity as the dam levels drop. The graph below shows just how bad the situation is.
What can be done to reduce the impact of these restrictions?
– Install a rainwater harvesting system to capture whatever rainfall there is when it falls for use in your garden and to top up your pool. – Install a greywater recycling system to recycle the water from your bath, shower and washing machine and use it to water your garden.
According to Johannesburg Water, they are currently investigating 119 cases in contravention of the level two water restrictions.
