GEORGE – The Bitou Municipality launched stage 3 water restrictions yesterday, 17 November, to prevent the increased risk of water shortages.
According to a statement released by the Bitou Municipality, these restrictions are in line with the municipality’s Drought Management Policy to manage and prevent the increased risk of water shortages.
Speaking to NovaNews, Bitou Communications Manager Andile Namntu said the current water restrictions are due to below-average rainfall and the growth of the area in relation to the available water infrastructure.
The statement noted that the latest seasonal climate forecast issued by SA Weather Services for the period November to January 2026 indicates that during the late-spring season going into summer, most areas of the country, including the Bitou area, are expected to receive below-normal rainfall.
Prohibited Uses of Municipal Water:
According to the statement, the use of potable water obtained from the Bitou Municipality’s water supply system is prohibited for the following activities:
(a) The watering of gardens using municipal water
(b) The filling or topping up of swimming pools, ponds, and paddling pools
(c) The use of automatic swimming pool water fillers
(d) The use of automatic irrigation sprinklers and drip systems
(e) The use of automatic urinal flushing systems
(f) The hosing of structures, roofs, and driveways
(g) The washing of motor vehicles, boats, and any other type of motorised or non-motorised vehicles
In response to the water shortages currently being faced, Namntu said: “Despite this, Bitou has increased efforts in repairing leaks expeditiously, rehabilitating boreholes, imposing water restrictions and issuing notices so that residents are aware that this is a water-scarce area.
“Long-term, Bitou has identified locations for additional boreholes and the building of the Wadrift Dam.
“Further, Bitou has conducted ongoing water campaigns through social media and direct marketing, and will now ramp up the campaign to include radio and newspapers.
“Finally, Bitou has received a conditional grant to increase treatment works capacity.”
