The Department of Water and Sanitation is calling on residents of Gauteng to take proactive measures in reducing their water consumption, despite the relatively stable water levels in the Integrated Vaal River System (IVRS) this week.
The IVRS remained unchanged at 90.8%, for two consecutive weeks from last week. However, this time last year, the IVRS stood at a more comfortable 99.9%.
Vaal Dam, a crucial component of IVRS, is currently at 71.0%, slightly down from 71.3% last week. In the same period last year, the dam had a capacity of 99.1%.
This week, Grootdraai Dam's capacity increased from 92.3% to 94.2%, whereas it had a capacity of 99.9% last year.
Water levels at Bloemhof Dam, another significant reservoir, have also increased from 94.5% to 94.7% this week. During the same period last year, the dam stood higher at 102.6%
Sterkfontein Dam has remained unchanged at 100.3 from last week’s 100.3. It recorded a higher capacity of 100.7% last year.
The situation in Lesotho remains relatively positive. The Mohale and Katse dams saw an increase in water levels this week.
Katse Dam's water level remained unchanged at 99.6% from last week's 99.6% and was lower at 99.2% during the same period last year.
Mohale Dam followed suit with a rise in water level this week, rising from 96.8 to 97.0%. Last year, the dam recorded higher at 102.2%.
Despite the stable water levels in many of these crucial water sources, the Department of Water and Sanitation continues to urge Gauteng residents to remain prudent in their water usage.
Residents can conserve water by planting drought-resistant vegetation and using greywater for irrigation. Additionally, using low-flow showerheads and turning off taps when not in use can reduce water consumption.
For more information, contact Wisane Mavasa, Spokesperson for the Department of Water and Sanitation on 060 561 8935
