The City welcomes the recent rainfall, however there was very little impact noted at the Hazelmere Dam and residents are still urged to save water. The Hazelmere Dam water level increased from 25.8 percent to 26.15 percent.
According to technical experts, we would need weeks of rainfall to replenish water to sustainable levels.
As a result of continuing below-average rainfall and insufficient water level in the Hazelmere Dam, Umgeni Water is now reducing portable water production to 50 percent. This is to ensure that water available in Hazelmere Dam lasts to supply the Northern areas of EThekwini Municipality, SembCorp Siza Water (Ballito) and ILembe District Municipality.
The recent rainfall may have given the false impression that the worst is over. The impact of the current drought has been so severe that the recent rainfall was insufficient to address water shortages in the most affected areas.
Let us continue so use water sparingly and reduce consumption throughout EThekwini Municipality by 50 percent. More areas may soon be affected as other dam levels continue to decline. The situation is being closely monitored.
EThekwini residents are urged to report illegal water connections, water leaks and burst pipes by calling our 24-hour call centre on 080 1313013.
Residents can also sms 43554 or email Eservices@durban.gov.za
