GEORGE NEWS - George residents may soon face tighter water restrictions as Council prepares to deliberate on the matter during a Special Council Meeting tomorrow, 4 September.
With the Garden Route Dam sitting at just 49% and the summer peak season about to begin, the municipality has warned that abnormal weather conditions are placing increasing pressure on the town’s water security.
According to the item that will be tabled before Council, the Garden Route region has received below-average rainfall in recent months. The South African Weather Service further predicts below-normal rainfall and above-average temperatures for the coming summer -conditions that could severely impact water supply across the Western Cape.
George has been on Level 2B water restrictions since April 2024, implemented when the municipality managed to temporarily boost its treatment capacity through the use of a package plant. These restrictions were expected to remain in place until the completion of the new 20Ml Water Treatment Works in January 2026.
The Garden Route Dam as photographed on Monday 1 December. Photo: Lorraine Verhagen
However, the current strain on raw water resources now requires a shift in approach. The agenda item notes that stricter restrictions are necessary, in line with the municipality’s Drought Management Policy. Implementation of tougher restrictions will also trigger Emergency Water Tariffs, as provided for in the 2025/26 Tariff List.
A further concern is growing public complacency. Despite ongoing reminders, significant water misuse and non-compliance continue, while law enforcement capacity to issue fines remains limited.
Before increased restrictions can take effect, the municipality must follow the processes outlined in the Water Services By-law: public notices must be displayed and published, and residents given 14 days to submit objections.
As Council enters recess soon, councillors will also be asked to delegate authority to the mayor to consider objections and approve final implementation of the measures.
With dam levels dropping by up to 2% per week, and river flows dwindling, the municipality cautions that decisive action is needed now to curb consumption and ensure water availability throughout the summer.
The spilway and embankment crest of the Garden Route Dam. Photo: Lorraine Verhagen
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