Anton Bredell, the Western Cape MEC for Local Government, Environmental Affairs and Development Planning, convened with senior officials  to address pressing challenges municipalities are facing as the festive season draws to a close. He emphasised the need for preparedness, particularly as the region is anticipating persistently hot and dry weather conditions for the months ahead.

“The Western Cape has experienced a particularly challenging fire season so far,” said Bredell. “We have authorised double the number of aerial firefighting support callouts compared to this time last year. The South African Weather Service has indicated that the outlook for the remainder of the summer remains hot and dry, which could extend the fire season beyond March.”

Bredell revealed that R15 million has already been allocated for aerial firefighting efforts, with the promise to consult with the Provincial Treasury should further funding be essential. To date, the Provincial Disaster Management Centre has sanctioned 38 aerial missions, with early estimates indicating approximately 90,000 hectares have burned this season. Miraculously, despite the destruction of 45 structures, no fatalities or severe injuries have been reported.

“The heatwave has also brought a looming water crisis to several municipalities in the region, particularly those in the Garden Route District such as Langeberg, Bitou, and Knysna. The situation in Langeberg is dire, with the Dassieshoek Dam peaking at a mere 2% and the Kooskok Dam sitting at 9%. In response, officials have upgraded the municipality’s pump station to enhance water abstraction from the Brandvlei Dam,” he said.

Bredell said in Knysna, the water supply is projected to sustain the community for only 13 days without additional rainfall, based on current levels at the Akkerkloof Dam which sits at 20% capacity.

“However, the Glebe Dam, sitting at 70% full, offers a glimmer of hope for additional support. This estimate does not account for alternative water sources, including boreholes and springs, that are currently being connected to the municipal supply network.

“Moreover, in extreme situations, water supply may need to be throttled in certain zones. Higher-lying areas where water pressure may diminish will see the installation of water tanks to ensure residents have access. The Garden Route District Municipality, alongside the Department of Local Government, has also positioned potable water tankers ready to respond to emergencies.

“Bitou Municipality reports that it is experiencing severely restricted inflow from its primary water source. Consequently, the municipality has activated its desalination plant and is in talks with the Department of Local Government to assess the feasibility of integrating two boreholes into its water supply system.

Minister Bredell urged citizens to comply with existing water restrictions, stating, “It is critically important that all residents and visitors adhere to the current water restrictions. The province, together with the National Department of Water and Sanitation, will continue to support these municipalitiesto ensure water security in the near future.”

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