Cape Town’s dams have exceeded 100% capacity, bringing a wave of comfort to its inhabitants. The extra water is a result of water cascading over the dam’s spillways, providing an ephemeral reservoir of water for rivers downstream. While the fixed baseline fee for water supply remains constant, the usagebased fee may increase to recoup expenditures associated with delivering trustworthy water services. Cape Town is investing in desalination, groundwater systems, and reuse, and aims to amplify water supply by an additional 300 million litres of new water per day by 2030 to ensure future water availability.
Meet Otter, a weed harvester designed to keep Cape Town’s water bodies healthy and clean. Equipped with underwater blades, it is responsible for controlling the growth of Sago Pondweed, removing algal mats, and refining water quality. Otter is a breakthrough in ecofriendly water management and a triumph of local craftsmanship, contributing to the city’s dedication towards preserving and enhancing its water bodies.
The City’s water management program is like a symphony, carefully orchestrated to maintain the harmony of infrastructure and water management. The program includes zeropressure tests and conditional evaluations, with a team working diligently from 9 am to 4 pm each day. This program aims to handle water pressure more efficiently, minimizing the risk of pipe breakages and water wastage. While temporary disruptions might occur, they only serve to amplify the excitement for the final performance an efficient, wellmanaged water supply system.
Cape Town is hosting an international conference on advanced water metering technologies, showcasing the city’s commitment to implementing innovative water management solutions. The city has invested R25 million in smart water metering technology, which allows customers to monitor their water consumption and reduce wastage while enabling the city to become a watersensitive city. Through an ambitious 15year expenditure plan exceeding R5 billion, Cape Town aims to implement smart meters citywide, promoting sustainable water management and offering an inspiring example for cities globally.