Higher stages of load shedding and scorching temperatures affecting Joburg and Tshwane water supply
Residents from the Joburg and Tshwane metros have been urged to reduce water consumption amid risk of low water levels and taps running dry.
Picture: Pixabay/balouriarajesh
JOHANNESBURG - As South Africa continues grapple with rolling power cuts, Gauteng’s water supply is at risk of running dry.
The City of Joburg and Tshwane said their water towers were taking strain due to the prolonged power cuts, while last week’s scorching temperatures have caused an increase in demand for water.
Both metros said reservoirs were not filling up fast enough, especially in high-lying areas where water needed to be pumped to get to taps.
While Eskom implemented stage 6 load shedding to avoid a possible collapse of the electricity grid, the power cuts have affected services, including water supply.
Some water pump stations in both the cities of Joburg and Tshwane need a consistent supply of electricity to feed the metro's water towers.
City of Tshwane spokesperson Sipho Stuurman said that to maintain a steady water supply, residents must adhere to level 1 restrictions.
Both metros have urged residents to reduce their water consumption.