Issued by: Department of Water Affairs and Forestry
12 DECEMBER 1995
Many questions were raised recently concerning the replanning of the Orange River. Replanning of the Orange River has become necessary in the light of changed priorities, information and circumstances. As a result of improved hydrological information obtained from gauging weirs and rain-gauges installed since 1986 in Lesotho, as well as rainfall statistics, the provision made for the environment, water losses which occur along the river, and the legitimate claims made by Namibia, the Department identified the need to do a replanning study concerning the application of available surplus water in the Orange River.
The replanning study of the Orange River started in 1994 and includes public participation.
Water users, particularly irrigators along the river, are concerned about the future of the water available in the Orange River. The replanning study will identify the quantity of water which is surplus to the current water use in the system and the potential uses of this surplus water. The information will be used to establish the quantity of water that can be transferred to the Vaal River System
Water users along the Orange River are welcome to give their inputs in the replanning study.
ENQUIRIES: DR PAUL ROBERTS TEL: (012) 299 2032 FAX: (012) 326 2630