The Kimberley Prospector

KIMBERLEY – In a distressing announcement made today by Thoko Riet, spokesperson for the Sol Plaatje Municipality, it has been revealed that Kimberley will face a water crisis due to ongoing low reservoir levels. To avoid complete depletion of the reservoirs, the Municipality will implement a temporary water switch-off today (Sunday, October 29, 2023) from 13:00 to 16:00. Additionally, nightly water interruptions from 21:00 to 04:00 will continue until further notice.

The vulnerability of the water supply in Kimberley has been a growing concern for its residents. Marie Beylefeld, who shared a message from an unknown source, exposed the alarming fact that there are approximately 20 leaks, four of which are significant, between Riverton and Kimberley. The transmission of water from Riverton is compromised, leaving the production of water at risk.

Marie Beylefeld expressed hope that there is an action plan in place to address these leaks urgently. She emphasized the need for updates on the water levels to ensure transparency in managing the crisis. Regular updates, especially in terms of percentage levels, would provide residents with vital information to support and assist the Sol Plaatje Municipality in effectively managing the water supply.

One of the major concerns highlighted is the poor distribution of water within the city. Several pipe bursts and leaks across the city have caused water to flow freely into stormwater drains. Some of these leaks have been ongoing since 2014, resulting in the wastage of millions of rands paid by hardworking ratepayers. Beylefeld emphasized the need for these leaks to be promptly addressed, urging the responsible parties to be held accountable for their negligence. She pointed out the inefficiency of the call centre, with logged calls often closed without the necessary action being taken. Beylefeld highlighted O’Brien Street as an example where this dereliction of duty has been observed.

Addressing the growing water demand, Beylefeld drew attention to the importance of citizens actively reducing their consumption. By implementing simple but effective measures, such as using pool covers, installing pool backwash tanks, incorporating waterwise toilets and flow restrictors on taps, and utilizing eco mode on washing machines, citizens can conserve water and save money in the long run. Beylefeld also stressed the significance of adopting waterwise plants in gardens and other eco-friendly practices.

The water crisis in Kimberley is rapidly reaching critical levels, with reservoirs facing the imminent risk of depletion. Urgent action is required to fix the transmission leaks and address the ongoing water wastage caused by pipe bursts and leaks in the city. As the Sol Plaatje Municipality works towards finding a long-term solution, residents must play their part by embracing water-saving measures and actively conserving this precious resource.