Western Cape Government assists water stressed Kannaland | Western Cape Government

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Western Cape Government assists water stressed Kannaland

19 February 2015

In a bid to address water shortages in the Eden district, the Western Cape Government will fund R2.1 million for a set of interventions aimed at increasing the region’s water supply.

The provincial departments of Local Government, Agriculture and Provincial Treasury have allocated the money for relief measures in Zoar, the most water stressed area in the region. Zoar is part of the Kannaland Municipality.

The interventions include:

  • Equipping of boreholes in Zoar
  • Repairs of associated bulk infrastructure at Zoar

As part of the strategy to increase the water supply, water from the nearby Jongensland dam will be pumped into Zoar.

At this stage, the affected area will not be declared a disaster area, as the planned interventions are considered sufficient to address the current situation.

Anton Bredell, Minister for Local Government, Environmental Affairs and Development Planning, said the major reason for the water problems in the area appears to be weather related.

“The region has seen very hot weather, low rainfall and in the past winter season, snowfall was limited. Generally the snow from the winter months affects the flow of the rivers providing water for the area in the summer months.”

Bredell says the department is in consultation with the National department of water and sanitation with regards to further long term interventions for the region.

“Our department is also on the ground in the area and on hand to provide any further assistance and guidance to the local council if called upon.”

Alan Winde, Minister of Economic Opportunities, commended the local agricultural sector for their role in increasing domestic water supply to the area. Farmers have been making their own water supplies available for the district at no charge during the past two weeks.

“The impact of a water shortage cuts across all sectors and we’d like to thank the farmers for channelling their own water supply to residents. Through collaboration between all spheres of government, residents and farmers, we have found solutions,” said Minister Winde.

The provincial government calls on consumers in the area to use water sparingly and responsibly.

Media Enquiries: 

James-Brent Styan

Spokesperson to Anton Bredell

Telephone:         021 483 2820

 

Bronwynne Jooste

Spokesperson: Alan Winde

Tel: 021 483 3550