Water shortage for PE
According to eNCA, Nelson Mandela Bay is on the verge of being declared a disaster area as a result of low water levels in the city dams.
Nelson Mandela Bay municipality has stated that taps could run dry by June this year if residents don't reduce water consumption immediately. The five dams in the region are all running seriously low, and with no significant rain forecast in the catchment areas in the next three months, taps could dry up soon.
As soon as the city's dams reach 45 percent capacity, the Metro will be declared a disaster area and the municipality will then have to apply to national government for disaster relief.
The municipality has identified of the 60 wards in this city, users are using 70 percent of the water, and that is excluding industry. Some households are well in access of 50 kiloliters, well above the acceptable limit, and it is expected that those identified will be given a notice period of two weeks before punitive measures will be taken, claimed Mayor, Athol Trollip.
While it has been noted that almost 21 pecent of the municipality’s water is lost to leaks, the region has taken action to contract 20 plumbers to fix the problem and more will soon be appointed.
Residents of Nelson Mandela Bay are urged to practice responsible water usage.