JOHANNESBURG — The Department of Water and Sanitation (DWS) has urged Gauteng residents to practice and maintain water conservation efforts, despite the Integrated Vaal River System (IVRS) holding steady.
According to South African Government News Agency, this week, the Vaal Dam, a key part of the IVRS, is currently at 49.7%, down from 50.5% the previous week. Comparatively, during the same period last year, the dam’s capacity was at a higher 90.1%. However, the IVRS remains stable at 81.0%, a slight decrease from last week’s 81.5%. Last year at this time, the system was at 96.0%.
“This high level of the IVRS will ensure a sustainable supply of water to Gauteng residents,” the department stated. Meanwhile, Grootdraai Dam saw a slight decrease from 85.3% to 84.4% this week, compared to 91.9% last year. Bloemhof Dam also experienced a minor decrease, from 91.1% to 90.6% this week, while last year it maintained a steady level of 102%.
Sterkfontein Dam maintained the same level as last week at 98.5%, down from 100.1% last year. The Mohale and Katse dams in Lesotho are in good condition, despite a slight decline in the water level at Katse Dam from 75.9% last week to 74.5% currently, compared to 91.9% last year. Mohale Dam’s water level remains steady at 100.8%, slightly up from 100.7% last year.
“Despite a modest decrease in water levels in several essential water sources, the Department of Water and Sanitation consistently advises Gauteng residents to exercise prudence in their water utilization. Furthermore, the department urges municipalities to address water leaks within the province,” the DWS emphasized.