The Department of Water and Sanitation (DWS) recently conducted an Annual Operating Analysis for the Greater Bloemfontein Water Supply System, which is part of the Orange River System. The study covers the period from 1 May 2023 to 30 April 2024. The analysis has revealed the need to impose water restrictions in the Greater Bloemfontein System, although no restrictions are required in the Orange River Project.
The Western Cape of South Africa has been grappling with a severe drought for several years. In 2017, the region introduced water restrictions to help manage the scarce water supply. While there has been a slight improvement in the situation in 2020, the region’s water supply remains fragile.