As South Africa welcomes the arrival of Spring, the Department of Water and Sanitation has urged the public to use water wisely and sparingly, given the ongoing decline in water levels across the country.
The department emphasised that South Africa is a water-scarce nation where every drop counts, making it essential for everyone to practice water conservation in their daily lives.
Spring Day, celebrated annually on 1 September, marks the beginning of a new season in South Africa. It is a tradition, particularly among children, to engage in various activities involving playing in and with water.
“Pouring each other with water in the name of welcoming spring on Spring Day might look cool but it adds to water wastage and contributes to the loss of precious water which we cannot afford,” the department said. “Spring is high time that we must strengthen water conservation initiatives as it comes with hot temperatures associated with high evaporation, leading to less water availability.”
The department emphasised that everyone is responsible for preventing water losses and contribute to sustainable water supply.
“Everyone can play a part in water security by using water wisely and sparingly through fixing leaks and reporting bulk pipeline leaks to the relevant authorities, not leaving the tap to run while washing your face or brushing teeth, filling kettles with just enough water for the specific need, and using a bucket to wash the car,” the department concluded.
Compiled by Warren Hawkins
