Statement by Minister of Local Government, Environmental Affairs and Development | Western Cape Government

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Statement by Minister of Local Government, Environmental Affairs and Development

8 March 2018

WC Water Update 5 March 2018 Statement by Minister of Local Government, Environmental Affairs and Development Planning, Anton Bredell. The average level for dams across the Western Cape for the week starting 5 March is 20.3% (2017: 30.09%). Anton Bredell, the minister of Local Government, Environmental Affairs and Development Planning in the Western Cape, has called on the public to continue driving water usage down in the coming months. “Saving water remains crucial because we cannot rely on winter rainfall. At this stage, the water situation in our 30 municipalities is relatively stable thanks to continued interventions, as well as a concerted effort to save water by citizens and business.

However the agriculture sector remains a major concern for us in the provincial government. We will continue to step up and provide support to this important sector, which is bearing the brunt of the drought.” Bredell cautioned that complacency in water savings, and another dry winter, could lead to further water constraints in the summer. “From a disaster management point of view, we are now starting to plan and prepare for next season when we may see similar water constraints, especially if we don’t get the rainfall we need in this coming winter.

We need to retain as much water in storage as possible as we go into the summer of 2018/19.” Bredell has acknowledged the change in leadership at national level. “In both the departments we are dealing with – Cogta and the Department of Water and Sanitation – there are now new ministers in charge.

I look forward to establishing a sound and productive working relationship with our new colleagues. We are available at their convenience to meet on the drought situation and I look forward to taking hands and tackling this crisis together. Only by working better together will we be able to provide long term sustainable solutions to the public.” Theewaterskloof is currently at 10.7% (2017: 26.03%); Voëlvlei Dam is at 15.5% (2017: 31.2%) and Clanwilliam Dam 8% (2017: 30%). Bergrivier 49.6% (2017: 39.2%). he latest dam level data per the National Department of Water and Sanitation: ENDS.

Media Enquiries: 

James-Brent Styan

Spokesperson for the Minister of Local Government, Environmental Affairs and Development Planning, Anton Bredell

Mobile: 084 583 1670

Telephone: 021 483 2820

E-mail: James-Brent.Styan@westerncape.gov.za