Water Restrictions Imposed on Greater Bloemfontein Water Supply System - Cape Town Today
Customize Consent Preferences

We use cookies to help you navigate efficiently and perform certain functions. You will find detailed information about all cookies under each consent category below.

The cookies that are categorized as "Necessary" are stored on your browser as they are essential for enabling the basic functionalities of the site. ... 

Always Active

Necessary cookies are required to enable the basic features of this site, such as providing secure log-in or adjusting your consent preferences. These cookies do not store any personally identifiable data.

No cookies to display.

Functional cookies help perform certain functionalities like sharing the content of the website on social media platforms, collecting feedback, and other third-party features.

No cookies to display.

Analytical cookies are used to understand how visitors interact with the website. These cookies help provide information on metrics such as the number of visitors, bounce rate, traffic source, etc.

No cookies to display.

Performance cookies are used to understand and analyze the key performance indexes of the website which helps in delivering a better user experience for the visitors.

No cookies to display.

Advertisement cookies are used to provide visitors with customized advertisements based on the pages you visited previously and to analyze the effectiveness of the ad campaigns.

No cookies to display.

Water Restrictions Imposed on Greater Bloemfontein Water Supply System

1 min read
water restrictions orange river system

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.

Orange River System

The Orange River Project includes dams such as Vanderkloof, Gariep in the Free State, and Katse and Mohale in Lesotho. On 1 May 2023, the combined storage capacity of these dams stood at 97.5%, indicating a decrease of 2.2% compared to the previous operating year. However, the combined gross storage of the Katse and Mohale Dams showed an increase of 0.6%, reaching 99.5% on the same date.

For the current operating year, South Africa is set to receive 780 million m3 of water transferred from Lesotho. A discretional allocation of 251 million m3 has been assigned to Eskom for the 2023/24 operating year.

Greater Bloemfontein Water Supply System

In the Greater Bloemfontein Water Supply System, the gross storage level was 98.9% on 1 May 2023, representing a 1.1% decrease compared to the previous year. Consequently, the DWS has determined that 18% water restrictions are necessary for the system when storage levels fall below the median of projected system storage. These restrictions will be lifted once the system starts spilling.

The water demands within the system currently surpass the yield, requiring close monitoring by the Department for compliance purposes. Ensuring the long-term sustainability of water supplies in the Orange River System depends on water users’ mindful consumption, taking into consideration the increasing demands and the uncertainty of supply due to the region’s highly variable climate.

Importance of Responsible Water Usage

The DWS stresses the importance of responsible water usage and encourages users to be mindful of their consumption habits to maintain a sustainable water supply in the region. The department’s spokesperson, Wisane Mavasa, is available for further inquiries regarding these restrictions and their implications.

Reminder on Efficient Water Management

The Greater Bloemfontein Water Supply System’s current situation serves as a reminder that water is a valuable resource that must be managed efficiently. Government, organizations, and residents must take this matter seriously, cooperating to ensure adequate water supply for all users in the region. The Department of Water and Sanitation will continue to monitor and evaluate the situation, ensuring that appropriate measures are taken to prevent future water shortages and maintain a sustainable water supply for all.

A Russian-Spanish journalist and Cape Town native, channels his lifelong passion for South Africa into captivating stories for his local blog. With a diverse background and 50 years of rich experiences, Serjio's unique voice resonates with readers seeking to explore Cape Town's vibrant culture. His love for the city shines through in every piece, making Serjio the go-to source for the latest in South African adventures.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published.

Previous Story

South Africa’s Captive Lion Industry Task Force: Paving the Way for a Humane Future

Next Story

SIU’s Confidence in Investigating Allegations of Corruption at Fort Hare University

Latest from Blog

Taj Cape Town: Where Timeless Grandeur Meets Modern Indulgence

Taj Cape Town is a stunning hotel where oldworld charm meets modern luxury. Housed in a beautiful Edwardian building, it invites guests to step into Cape Town’s rich history while enjoying top comforts, delicious food, and warm, personal service. From waking up to views of Table Mountain to relaxing with awardwinning spa treatments and savoring exquisite meals, every moment feels special. The hotel also connects visitors deeply to the vibrant culture and spirit of the city, making each stay a unique and memorable adventure.

Meeting the IT3(d) Deadline: A New Era of Accountability for South African NPOs

South African nonprofits face a big deadline between April 15 and May 31, 2025, to submit important tax reports called IT3(d). This report keeps their ability to give donors taxdeductible receipts, which helps raise money and build trust. Missing the deadline can cause fines and loss of this key status, hurting their work and the communities they serve. Many groups are working hard, using new tech and teamwork to meet the deadline and stay strong. This yearly challenge pushes nonprofits to be more professional and transparent, securing their future.

Shores of Safety: How the NSRI’s Beach Camera Network is Changing Coastal Rescue

The NSRI’s Beach Safety Camera Network is making South Africa’s beaches safer by watching six risky spots with live video and trained watchers. These cameras spot trouble fast, helping rescuers jump into action before things get worse. The system respects people’s privacy and brings communities together to protect beachgoers. Thanks to this smart mix of technology and teamwork, more lives are being saved along the beautiful but sometimes dangerous coast.

Clouds Above the Cape: South Africa’s Teen Vaping Crisis

Teen vaping is growing fast in South Africa, with many young people using flavored nicotine vapes that are easy to find and heavily advertised. A big study found that nearly one in six teens vape regularly, and many show signs of addiction, worrying health experts. Vaping has become part of teen life at schools and social spots, fueled by cool images online and wrong ideas that it’s safe. Now, South Africa faces a crucial moment to pass strong laws and teach kids the truth before this habit takes deeper hold. Without action, many teens risk lifelong health problems hidden behind the clouds of sweet vapor.

Reimagining the Strand Street Quarry: Cape Town’s Next Chapter

The Strand Street Quarry in Cape Town is set to transform from a quiet, forgotten space into a lively community hub full of sports, culture, and fun. This special place, rich with history and surrounded by vibrant neighborhoods, will become a spot where people can play, celebrate, work, and connect. The city is listening closely to its residents to make sure the new space respects the past while welcoming the future. Together, Cape Town hopes to turn the old quarry into a bright, shared treasure for everyone.