The Department of Water and Sanitation (DWS), through its Blue Scorpions, has achieved yet another significant milestone in dealing with the water transgressions in the Western Cape Province.
The Blue Scorpions is the core regulatory component within the DWS that was set-up to ensure the protection of all water resources in the country as well as the enforcement of all water and sanitation laws and regulations.
In the Breede Valley area a farmer was recently convicted of contravening the new dam safety regulations by constructing a dam with no authorisation from the Department.
Following the litigation process, this farmer was fined R20 000, 00 which was paid directly to Breede-Gouritz Catchment Management Agency (Breede-Gouritz CMA) to enhance its compliance and monitoring function.
Thanduxolo Thando Stimela, the Investigating Officer from the DWS Blue Scorpions says "the success in this case demonstrates the Department’s ability to conduct its own criminal investigation in water related cases”.
This milestone also sends out a clear message that farmers should adhere to the 20% curtailment of all water uses as per notice 1057 that was carried in government gazette number 40279 of 16 September 2016 pertaining to the drought period.
In strengthening the enforcement capacity in the Department, Minister Nomvula Mokonyane has designated the Environmental Management Inspectors “EMIs” who now will conduct their own criminal investigations instead of relying on South African Police Services.
Given the water challenges gripping the country, the Department cannot afford to turn a blind eye on water transgressions. The Department appeals to all water users to act in a responsible manner and respect the use of water during this drought period.
As part of the Enforcement Month (November) the Blue Scorpions will intensify Blitz Operations across the length and the breadth of the Western Cape to ensure water users comply with the National Water Act 36 of 1998.
“Water is Life, Sanitation is Dignity”
For more information contact:
Sputnik Ratau
Departmental Spokesperson
Cell: 082 874 2942
Tel: 012 336 6813
Email: rataus@dws.gov.za
Malusi Rayi
Communication Service
Cell: 083 320 1249
Tel: 021 941-6110
Email: RayiM@dws.gov.za
