Issued by: Department of Water Affairs and Forestry
KEEP YOUR THIRST IN CHECK, THOHOYANDOU 24 OCTOBER 1995
In their own interest, water consumers in the Thohoyandou region, who are supplied from the Phiphidi purification plant, are requested by the Department of Water Affairs and Forestry to save water as the drought cycle is still prevailing. The water level of the Vondo Dam is presently at 12%. A reduction of at least 30% of water consumption per day will ensure enough water for another dry season.
The water demand of the area, which is being supplied by the purification works, has increased as a result of urban development. The water pipe was cleaned towards the end of 1994 and the flow rate was increased to the capacity of the pipe, which is 480 Us. If the lowest inflow on record is simulated and superimposed on a consumption rate of 480 Us. the dam will be empty by the end of March 1996. Higher inflows, which increase the capacity of the dam, normally occur during January and February of the rainy season. In order to have enough water by the end of the this season, it is of the utmost importance that water consumption in this area is reduced.
The situation will be monitored continuously and water consumers will be informed about the results.
The water level of the Tshakuma Dam is currently at 87%, and pumping with the Emergency Scheme to the upper catchment area of the Vondo Dam should also commence in order to supply the Tshakuma region via the Phiphidi purification plant.
The necessary negotiations have been entered into with the Tshakuma community to ensure that pumping can commence. Using the two dams as one system will ensure adequate water supply to the Phiphidi purification plant for the Tshakuma Community.
All the water consumers in the area are requested to co-operate in this very essential effort to ensure a sustainable water supply.
ENQUIRIES: MR PJ OBERHOLZER TEL: (012) 672 2957