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

11 September 2018

The average dam level in the Western Cape has increased to above 60%.

In addition, the Theewaterskloof dam, the largest in the province, has reached a level of above 50%. Dams feeding the City of Cape Town are currently standing at 69% (2017: 37%).

 

Anton Bredell, the minister of Local Government, Environmental Affairs and Development Planning in the Western Cape, says the numbers are very welcome.

“I am particularly pleased with the Theewaterskloof dam levels. Only a few months ago the dam looked like a desolate desert in many patches and was at real risk of running dry. The turnaround is remarkable.”

 

Bredell also thanked citizens and visitors to the Western Cape for the contributions over the past two years in particular towards reducing water usage.

“It was a combined effort from the state, the private sector and the public that got us through this devastating drought.”

 

Bredell says the most worrying area for the province remains large tracts of the Karoo and Longkloof regions.

“Thankfully we have also seen in these areas, a little relief over the past seven days. The Gouritz River catchment area has seen its average dam level increase to above 19% following good rains and heavy snowfall in the region over the past week. The snow is welcome due to the fact that it contributes to groundwater levels as it melts over a longer period. In addition, the region is largely a summer rainfall region, so we look forward to some rains in the months to come.”

 

Despite the optimism, Bredell has called on consumers across the province to continue to use water sparingly with the focus on the coming summer season when demand is expected to pick up again.

“In some areas restrictions are being lessened and this may lead to people being less water cautious. I want to urge consumers to continue being water efficient and to make the efficiency changes in water use permanent.”

 

Major Dam statistics

 

Theewaterskloof dam – 51% full this week (2017: 28%. Last week: 48%)

Voëlvlei dam – 81% full this week (2017: 27%. Last week: 74%)

Bergriver Dam 98% full this week (2017: 60%. Last week: 97%).

Clanwilliam Dam 98%. (2017: 40%. Last week: 98%) 

 

 

The 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