The City of Johannesburg has issued an urgent call to its residents to remain mindful of their water usage as it says level 1 water restrictions are still in place.

According to Nico de Jager, MMC for Environment and Infrastructure Services, water usage has increased at an alarming rate and this is of serious concern given the recent heat wave which has plagued the province since the beginning of 2018.

“When the National Department of Water and Sanitation lifted the water restrictions in early March 2017, it was agreed that the City of Joburg would retain some level of water restrictions. Residents are therefore reminded that Level 1 water restrictions are still in place,” he explained.

Level 1 water restrictions, mean residents cannot water their gardens between 6am and 6pm in summer months (1 Sept to 31 March). They are also not allowed to wash paved areas and driveways using hose pipes.

The city is also urging residents are to continue to report all burst pipes, leaking water meters, open hydrants.

“Water is a scarce commodity and Johannesburg Water is committed to provide a sustainable water and sanitation supply to all residents of the City. Level 1 water restrictions will be enforced by fines to consumers who contravened the Water Services By-law and consumers are urged to report non-compliance by phoning the JMPD 24/7 hotline,” De Jager concludes.