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

29 November 2017

WC Water Update

 The average level for dams across the Western Cape for the week starting 27 November is 34% (2016: 56%).

Anton Bredell, the minister of Local Government, Environmental Affairs and Development Planning in the Western Cape, says Provincial Treasury has made

some budget allocations to the Department to assist with ongoing drought management.

“The department of Local Government has received an additional R95 million in the recent budget adjustments.

This money will be used for drought relief and water supply projects, amongst other interventions.”

 Bredell said that R25 million will be used to provide additional drought relief and R55 million will go towards water augmentation initiatives, including boreholes in drought affected areas of the province.

“Various areas across the province remain in a dire state. These include Beaufort-West and Kannaland, the City of Cape Town, Bitou and Knysna.

In addition, the Matzikama region on the West Coast has become a serious problem, with the agriculture sector particularly hard hit.”

 Premier Helen Zille says the provincial government is working hard to help municipalities secure their water supply.

“The Provincial Government has completed the equipping of boreholes in Beaufort West, with supply projects in Kynsna and Kannaland expected to reach completion by the end of January.

Following my visit to the Provincial Disaster management centre last week, I am confident we have the best people on the job.

All residents are required to continue to save water if we are to avoid the taps running dry,” said Premier Zille.

 Bredell repeated his appeal to the public – as well as visitors to the Western Cape - to continue to manage their water usage downwards.

“It remains all hands on deck in the coming period.”

 Theewaterskloof is currently at 23% (2016: 47%); Voëlvlei Dam is at 27% (2016: 64%) and Clanwilliam Dam 33% (2016: 89%). Brandvlei Dam is 30% (2016: 52%).

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