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The Western Cape Water Supply System (WCWSS)  which comprises of the six largest dams in the Western Cape has decreased  slightly by almost 1% as compared to last week. This is according to the Department of Water and Sanitation’s (DWS) weekly hydrological report of  today 14 June 2021.

Sputnik Ratau, Spokesperson for the National Department of Water and Sanitation (DWS) says the Gouritz River Catchment System on the Eastern side of the Western Cape has been below 30% for the last few years and continues to be a serious concern for DWS.

Ratau further states that while the water storage in many parts of the Western Cape is improving due to winter rainfall this should not breed complacency. Water conservation and water demand initiatives must remain in place. “It is pleasing to see the Theewaterskloof which is the largest dam in the province still clinging on at 80% at this time of the year”, says Ratau. 

During the recent G7 Countries Summit, Climate Change was on top of the agenda. Leaders of the G7 countries ended the three-day summit  with a diverse set of initiatives including a pledge to tackle Climate Change with a blend of technologies.

“This implies that as climate is becoming a new normal, a business as usual approach can no longer be a sustainable solution. For this reason water users are requested to explore alternate water sources to ease reliance on surface water. A healthy water mix is essential, even as indicated in the country’s National Water and Sanitation Master Plan”,  concludes Ratau.

“Water is Life, Sanitation is Dignity”

Issued by the Department of Water & Sanitation in Western Cape