The Department of Water and Sanitation (DWS) in the Western Cape has welcomed the recent heavy rains across the provincial catchments.

According to the weekly hydrological report of 01 June 2020, the combined average dam level for the Western Cape Water Supply System (WCWSS) is at 54,86 % a notable increase as compared to the 52,67% recorded last week.

The figures are likely to increase as the run off is still making its way to some dams.

The rains however did not yield the desired outcomes in the Gouritz River Catchment System as the Gamka Dam and other dams are stable. Gamka Dam is currently at 31, 50% as compared to 31,76% last week. This catchment requires significant rains to ramp up its dam levels.

“The downpours and the snow will certainly make a positive impact on the dam levels and recharge the ground water levels of the Western Cape”, says Zanele Bila-Mupariwa, the Acting Provincial Head at the DWS.

Bila-Mupariwa further states that while the significant rains are welcomed, this does not suggest complacency. water conservation initiatives must continue.

Remember the saying “one swallow does not make a summer”.

The Western Cape Province receives its majority rainfall in the winter season, for this reason water users are requested to embark on water conservation initiatives including rain-harvesting.

“As the citizens are aware  DWS supported by the Provincial Government of the Western Cape have dispatched and installed water tanks across the province as emergency water supply to curb the spread of the COVID-19 pandemic. This will contribute to reduce the significant strain on water supply. As more water is used, the need for intensified water savings initiatives rises.

“The department is committed to providing regular updates on the Western Cape water situation using multiple platforms including the issuing of the weekly dam level reports.”

 “Water is Life, Sanitation is Dignity”