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The Portfolio Committee on Water and Sanitation cautions against possible misuse of water following the release of water from the Sterkfontein Dam to replenish the Vaal Dam. While the activation of this intervention is necessary and welcomed, it must not be taken for granted that the drought is averted.

“Communities have to be reminded that we continue to face one of the most debilitating droughts and they must take steps to reduce consumption. The responsibility is upon every individual to make a conscious decision to conserve the little water we currently have to avoid worsening an already dire situation,” said Mr Mlungisi Johnson, the Chairperson of the Committee.

The Committee urges municipalities to strengthen their monitoring units to ensure that residents comply with set restrictions. “By-laws must be implemented to the letter and fines must be issued for those that defy the restrictions,” Mr Johnson emphasised.

The Vaal River water system plays an integral part in driving the economic hub of the country and thus South Africa’s economy in general. To this end, the Committee welcomes initiatives aimed at ensuring the viability of the system.

Issued by Parliamentary Communication Services on behalf of Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee on Water and Sanitation, Mr Mlungisi Johnson.