GEORGE NEWS - George is once again facing increasing pressure on its water resources, with the water level of the Garden Route Dam now below 55% and continuing to decline as rainfall remains well below seasonal norms. 

While the situation is not yet classified as an official drought, the decreasing dam levels and reduced catchment run-off signal a clear warning: every drop counts, and residents must act now to avoid more severe restrictions later.

To manage the growing demand on the system, George Municipality has activated its Water Management Task Team, responsible for co-ordinating interventions, strengthening monitoring, and ensuring that every sector plays its part in conserving water. 

As part of this effort, Level 2B water restrictions remain firmly in place.

Under Level 2B, the use of mechanical or automatic irrigation systems is prohibited. Gardens may still be watered with a bucket at any time, but the use of a handheld hose is restricted to allocated days and times based on even- or odd-numbered addresses. 

Washing vehicles using hosepipes is not allowed except at certified commercial car washes, and swimming pools may not be filled with municipal drinking water.

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In addition to enforcing restrictions, the municipality is taking a proactive community-support approach. 

A key component of the intensified water-saving programme is the monitoring of the top 300 highest water users in George. Law Enforcement and technical teams have already visited the top 100 properties to help identify leaks, provide guidance on daily water use, and reduce excessive consumption. 

This initiative is not punitive - it is about partnership, awareness, and using data to intervene where the largest savings can be made.

Residents with questions or concerns regarding water restrictions may contact Civil Engineering Services on 044 801 9354, or email requests@george.gov.za for general enquiries.
Water meter readings can be submitted to meterreadings@george.gov.za, and account-related enquiries can be directed to accounts@george.gov.za.

Water conservation remains the quickest and most effective tool we have. The municipality urges all residents, businesses and institutions to use water responsibly and help safeguard George’s future water supply.

READ MORE: Garden Route water shortages: 2010 drought measures revived

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