High levels of geosmin in the water supply from the
Theewaterskloof Dam is the reason you may be experiencing smelly tap water with
an earthy taste.
The City of Cape Town yesterday (Wednesday) assured residents
the water is safe to drink and compliant with SANS241 standards. Samples have
been collected in affected areas for testing.
“This is currently affecting the taste and smell of
the water supplied from the Faure and Blackheath water treatment plants to
various areas across Cape Town,” a City statement read.
“Geosmin poses no threat to human health. It is a
naturally occurring organic compound and is responsible for the earthy taste of
beetroot and the scent in the air when rain falls after a dry spell.”
The
compound is especially present in water during weather changes and even minute
concentrations can be detected by the human palate.
“We are monitoring the levels as part of the water
treatment process, currently enhanced by the dosing of powdered activated
carbon during this process to reduce the effect of the geosmin. However, it may
take some time for the taste and smell of the water to normalise.”
