Windhoek exceeds water-saving target by 16%
The City of Windhoek yesterday said a 10% reduction in water usage is necessary during the winter months to maintain the required 5% savings target.“As we transition into the winter months, it is crucial to maintain our water-consumption efforts.” This measure aims to offset the anticipated increase in water consumption during the summer.
In an announcement on Facebook, the municipality said according to its water management plan, residents need to reduce their water usage by at least 10% under Category C conditions, which indicates water scarcity.
Despite setting a weekly consumption target of 422 877 kilolitres, the actual consumption from 30 April to 6 May stood at 492 399 kilolitres, the City said. This was 16% above the target.
“These figures indicate that our water consumption exceeds the permitted limits. Let us redouble our efforts to conserve water and minimise water-intensive activities. Remember, saving water translates to lower costs. To reduce your water usage, please inspect your property for leaks and promptly repair them. Every drop saved contributes to our collective conservation efforts,” it added.
The major share of the water supply for Windhoek stems from a three-dam system - the Omatako, Swakoppoort and Von Bach dams.
According to the latest dam bulletin issued by NamWater, the average level of these three dams now stands at 18% compared to last season’s 37.2%.
The level of the Swakoppoort is at 35.3%, the Von Bach Dam 11.3% and the Omatako 0.3%.
The bulletin noted that transfers of water took place from Swakoppoort to Von Bach and from northern sources to Von Bach.