Author: Chantel Edwards
PUBLIC NOTICE: WATER STATUS UPDATE
PUBLIC NOTICE: Water Update Issued George Municipality, 7 Feb @ 06h50
George Municipality remains concerned about the main drinking water reservoirs which are still under severe pressure. Repeated requests to the public to use water sparingly is not being reflected in the daily consumption figures and water consumption is now being monitored hourly for all areas.
Flow to the system will be restricted on an ongoing basis, to force a reduction in daily consumption. This will result in low water pressure being experienced. Please do not report incidents of low water pressure. The public is requested to only report if they have no water.
We thank those residents who have heeded our call and implemented measures to reduce household consumption.
Water Restrictions have been implemented. Any person who contravenes these restrictions is guilty of an offence and is, upon conviction, liable to a fine as published in the annual tariffs list, or six months imprisonment. Contraventions of the Water Restrictions can be reported on 0800 424477 and will be followed up by George Municipal Law Enforcement.
Report all water leaks to our Civil Engineering Department on 044 801 9262/66 or after hours 044 801 6300
Issued George Municipality, 5 February 2022, 11h15
Strategic repairs to one of the main valves at the Water Treatment Works was successfully completed last night following damage caused by loadshedding. The raw water supply to the balancing dams has been restored.
However, during the process the old Water Treatment Works had to be shut down and this has impacted on the purification of water and storage in our main drinking water reservoirs.
We request the public to please use water sparingly in order to restore capacity in our reservoirs.
PLEASE USE WATER SPARINGLY – All drinking water reservoirs remain vulnerable
Issued George Municipality, 4 February 2022, 19h00
The GRP pipeline that currently provides the raw water supply from the Garden Route Dam to the balancing dams, which in turn provides raw water to the Water Treatment Works for purification, failed today.
The second, water pipeline, that was damaged in the floods and was scheduled for remedial works after the peak season, is now undergoing unscheduled repairs. Once repaired this pipeline will be recommissioned to restore the raw water supply to the balancing dams.
A contractor is assisting the municipal teams at both sites, and work will continue throughout the night.
LOADSHEDDING
ESKOM has just announced the downgrading of Load shedding to level one. Despite the reprieve that this will bring to all residents, the Municipality has submitted an application to ESKOM to ensure constant electricity supply to the raw water pump station so that the refilling of the balancing dams can proceed uninterrupted after the necessary pipeline repairs have been completed.
PLEASE USE WATER SPARINGLY – Further updates will be provided.
George awarded Clean Audit
Issued George Municipality, 1 February 2022 for immediate release
Executive Mayor Leon Van Wyk announced in Ordinary Council yesterday, 31 January 2022 that George Municipality has received an unqualified audit opinion with no findings on the annual performance report for the year ended 30 June 2021. This is what is known as a “clean audit report”.
Ald Van Wyk offered his congratulations to the Acting Municipal Manager, Dr Michele Gratz, the Chief Financial Officer, Mr Riaan du Plessis, the Finance team, Internal Audit and all the Directorates who have put in a huge effort over the last few weeks, months and year to ensure that this milestone was achieved.
The Auditor-General commended the management for the audit outcome of the municipality which improved. “The outcome in the prior year was an unqualified audit opinion with findings on predetermined objectives which improved to unqualified opinion with no findings. This is mainly attributable to the efforts made by management to improve controls around indigent debtors and the overall improvement of the control environment at the municipality.”
Portfolio Councillor for Finance, Dirk Wessels congratulated the entire administration on the achievement. “This clean audit highlights to the public of George, that the Council and the municipality are working with care with taxpayer’s funds. George is one of the few financially stable municipalities in South Africa.”
Acting Municipal Manager, Dr Michele Gratz was thrilled with the outcome and lauded the immense team effort involved. “The improvement on the previous year’s audit outcome is a fitting reward for the Administration’s hard work and commitment to good governance, clean administration and ensuring that George Municipality is financially sustainable.”
This favourable audit result was a result of a huge team effort by the Municipality and was guided by the exceptional leadership of the acting Municipal Manager said CFO, Riaan Du Plessis. “The result confirms the efforts made by the municipality’s officials and management to address the findings raised by the Auditor-General in the prior year reports. The commitment and efforts of our staff are acknowledged and greatly appreciated.
Despite this excellent result, there remain further improvements that will be made to continue our drive to modernise the municipality’s administration and to ensure we optimise our ability to effectively deliver services. This result is encouraging and motivates the officials to continue in their efforts to establish George as the leading secondary city.”
PUBLIC NOTICE: Touw River Test Results: NON-COMPLIANT
Issued George Municipality, 27 January 11h50
Test results received for 26 January, indicate that the Touw River is NON-COMPLIANT at Ebb & Flow area for Full Contact and NO SWIMMING OR WATERSPORTS IS ALLOWED at this stage.
Lagoon Mouth NON-COMPLIANT, no swimming is allowed, however, intermediate contact is allowed and therefore canoeing and water sports where you do not touch the water are permitted.
The results are compliant for Fairy Knowe and swimming and water sports are permitted.
Issued George Municipality, 26 January 11h00
Test results received for 25 January, indicate that the Touw River is COMPLIANT for Full Contact.
SWIMMING, canoeing, and water sports are allowed at all areas – Ebb and Flow, Fairy Knowe and Lagoon/ river mouth.
Issued by George Municipality 26 Jan 2022 at 11h00
Issued George Municipality, 25 January 10h00
Test results received for 24 January, indicate that the Touw River is COMPLIANT for Full Contact.
SWIMMING, canoeing, and water sports are allowed at all areas – Ebb and Flow, Fairy Knowe and Lagoon/ river mouth.
Issued by George Municipality 25 Jan 2022 at 10h00
Issued George Municipality, 24 January 10h00
Test results received for 23 January, indicate that the Touw River is COMPLIANT for Full Contact.
SWIMMING, canoeing and water sports are allowed at all areas – Ebb and Flow, Fairy Knowe and Lagoon/ river mouth.
Issued by George Municipality 24 Jan 2022 at 10h00
Issued George Municipality, 23 January 10h00
Test results received for 22 January, indicate that the Touw River remains NON-COMPLIANT at Ebb and Flow and Fairy Knowe area for Full Contact and NO SWIMMING IS ALLOWED at this stage. Intermediate contact is allowed and therefore canoeing and water sports where you do not touch the water are permitted.
The results are compliant for the River mouth/lagoon and swimming and water sports are permitted.
Issued by George Municipality 23 Jan 2022 at 10h00
Issued George Municipality, 22 January 10h00
Test results received for 21 January, indicate that the Touw River remains NON-COMPLIANT at Ebb and Flow and Fairy Knowe area for Full Contact and NO SWIMMING IS ALLOWED at this stage. Intermediate contact is allowed and therefore canoeing and water sports where you do not touch the water are permitted.
The results are compliant for the River mouth/lagoon and swimming and water sports are permitted. Issued by George Municipality 22 Jan 2022 at 10h00
PUBLIC NOTICE: Water Restrictions Implemented
Issued George Municipality, 25 January 2022
Water Restrictions are necessary to protect our water resources
The George Municipal Section 80 Civil Engineering Services Committee today, 25 January 2022 approved the implementation of Water Restrictions similar to those found in paragraph 2B of the George Municipal Drought Management Policy.
Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee, Cllr Browen Johnson noted that an emergency as contemplated in Section 2(4)(b) of the Water Services By-law to limit or restrict the use of water currently exists in George as the water treatment works cannot meet the current potable water demand and cannot ensure adequate reservoir storage volumes to meet the emergency storage volumes required.
Water restrictions will therefore be implemented in the George Water Distribution and Reticulation network, excluding Uniondale and Haarlem, with immediate effect until further notice.
The immediate measures to be adhered to are as follows:
- The mechanical or automatic irrigation/watering devices or sprinkler systems for gardens is prohibited.
- Gardens may be watered with a handheld hose from 01 September to 30 May during the following period only, i.e. between 19:00 to 21:00
Gardens may be watered with a handheld hose from 01 June to 31 August during the following period only, i.e. between 17:00 to 19:00:
Mondays and Thursdays for even-numbered households ONLY
Tuesdays and Fridays for uneven numbered households ONLY.
- The irrigation or watering of all sports fields is prohibited. Exemption from restrictions in the following instances only: golf course greens, bowling greens, and cricket pitches which may only be watered between 19:00 and 21:00.
- The washing of vehicles with a garden hose is prohibited, except by a commercial enterprise whose business it is to wash cars.
- The cleaning of ANY area by mechanical means or hosepipe using water is prohibited; The use of a bucket is however permitted.
- The filling of swimming pools is prohibited.
- Where own water from a borehole or reservoir is used, the appropriate notice shall be displayed on the premises, e.g. “OWN WATER”.
Contraventions of the Water Restrictions can be reported on 0800 424477 and will be followed up by George Municipal Law Enforcement.
Any person who contravenes these restrictions is guilty of an offence and is, upon conviction, liable to a fine as published in the annual tariffs list, or six months imprisonment.
In terms of Section 5 of the By-law, any person may apply in writing for the exemption from the provision of any notice published in terms of the By-law, and the Council may grant an exemption and impose conditions in respect of such an application. The Policy grants permission to the Directorate Civil Engineering Services to approve applications for exemptions.
Application forms for an exemption can be obtained from the office of the Directorate: Civil Engineering Services, Old Town Hall, on the corner of Market and York Streets. Alternatively, applicants can contact Ms G van Niekerk on 044 – 801 9354 / gvanniekerk@george.gov.za to request that a copy of the application form be emailed to them. The Directorate Civil Engineering Services will consider all applications. A written exemption shall be provided where approved.
Report all water leaks to our Civil Engineering Department on 044 801 9262/66 to email an application form.
MEDIA RELEASE: Water Restrictions implemented to protect drinking water for George
Issued George Municipality, 25 January 2022, for immediate release
Water Restrictions are necessary to protect our water resources
The George Municipal Section 80 Civil Engineering Services Committee today, 25 January 2022 approved the implementation of Water Restrictions similar to those found in paragraph 2B of the George Municipal Drought Management Policy.
Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee, Cllr Browen Johnson noted that an emergency as contemplated in Section 2(4)(b) of the Water Services By-law to limit or restrict the use of water currently exists in George as the water treatment works cannot meet the current potable water demand and cannot ensure adequate reservoir storage volumes to meet the emergency storage volumes required.
Due to the flood disaster event that occurred on 22 November 2021, the National Head of the Disaster Management Centre declared a national disaster of this event on 19 January 2022. Severe damage to our infrastructure on 22 November and again 06 December 2021 has meant that our main storage reservoirs could never recover their storage capacity adequately to act as a backup for the high season demand. This coupled with the warm weather, general growth and the recent reopening of businesses and industries means that the average daily demand is hovering at 38-39 Megalitres (Ml) per day, with peak days reaching even 40Ml/day. The production capacity of the Old and New Water Treatment Works is a combined volume of 38Ml per day.
Water restrictions will therefore be implemented in the George Water Distribution and Reticulation network, excluding Uniondale and Haarlem, with immediate effect until further notice.
The right of access to basic water supply and sanitation is a basic right for all communities and it is the responsibility of the George Municipality as the Water Services Institution to take reasonable measures to ensure these rights.
The immediate measures to be adhered to are as follows:
- The mechanical or automatic irrigation/watering devices or sprinkler systems for gardens is prohibited.
- Gardens may be watered with a handheld hose from 01 September to 30 May during the following period only, i.e. between 19:00 to 21:00
Gardens may be watered with a handheld hose from 01 June to 31 August during the following period only, i.e. between 17:00 to 19:00:
Mondays and Thursdays for even-numbered households ONLY
Tuesdays and Fridays for uneven numbered households ONLY.
- The irrigation or watering of all sports fields is prohibited. Exemption from restrictions in the following instances only: golf course greens, bowling greens, and cricket pitches which may only be watered between 19:00 and 21:00.
- The washing of vehicles with a garden hose is prohibited, except by a commercial enterprise whose business it is to wash cars.
- The cleaning of ANY area by mechanical means or hosepipe using water is prohibited; The use of a bucket is however permitted.
- The filling of swimming pools is prohibited.
- Where own water from a borehole or reservoir is used, the appropriate notice shall be displayed on the premises, e.g. “OWN WATER”.
Contraventions of the Water Restrictions can be reported on 0800 424477 and will be followed up by George Municipal Law Enforcement.
Any person who contravenes these restrictions is guilty of an offence and is, upon conviction, liable to a fine as published in the annual tariffs list, or six months imprisonment.
In terms of Section 5 of the By-law, any person may apply in writing for the exemption from the provision of any notice published in terms of the By-law, and the Council may grant an exemption and impose conditions in respect of such an application. The Policy grants permission to the Directorate Civil Engineering Services to approve applications for exemptions.
Application forms for an exemption can be obtained from the office of the Directorate: Civil Engineering Services, Old Town Hall, on the corner of Market and York Streets. Alternatively, applicants can contact Ms G van Niekerk on 044 – 801 9354 / gvanniekerk@george.gov.za to request that a copy of the application form be emailed to them. The Directorate Civil Engineering Services will consider all applications. A written exemption shall be provided where approved.
Report all water leaks to our Civil Engineering Department on 044 801 9262/66 to email an application form.
PUBLIC NOTICE: Update on status of water throttling
Issued George Mun, 23 January 2022, 19h00
George Municipality has implemented water throttling as of Friday evening to bolster water reservoir levels with drinking water. Various areas have experienced either low water pressure or in some cases no water. On Friday morning we had just over 3 hours supply of drinking water in our reservoirs and now have 9 hours of drinking water supply.
Our technical team is pleased with the increase given the extremely hot weather we have experienced over the past two days. George Municipality would like to thank the residents of George for their assistance in reducing consumption of drinking water.
The system has been opened at full capacity to fill and stabilize the network.
WATER TRUCKS
Water trucks continue to circulate throughout Thembalethu until 21h00 tonight.
Please limit fault reporting to water leaks and burst pipes to 044 801 9262/66 or after hours at 044 801 6300, as soon as you notice them.
USE WATER SPARINGLY
George Municipality appeals to the residents of George to USE WATER SPARINGLY and ONLY FOR BASIC NECESSITIES in particular at peak times. Peak times are between 07h00 – 09h00 in the morning, 12h00 to 14h00, and 17h00 to 20h00.
We are asking all residents, businesses (including construction companies), schools, sports facilities to please carefully review their use of drinking water and to make a conscious decision to cut back on wastage, and the unnecessary use of drinking water.
Please use our drinking water sparingly and remember water is a precious commodity.
________________________________________________________________________
PUBLIC NOTICE: Water throttling implemented
Issued George Mun, 23 January 2022, 07h00
George Municipality continues to implement water throttling to replenish water reservoir levels with drinking water. All areas will experience low water pressure and we ask that residents not phone in to report low pressure.
WATER TRUCKS
Water trucks are on site as follows:
• Imizamo Yethu High School
• Zone 1 Schaap Str
• Zone 8, Police Station
• Zone 4, Thembalethu Primary
• Zone 9, Clinic
• Zone 6, Asazani
• Zone 6, Silvertown at traffic circle
• Zone 6, Roman Catholic Church
• Zone 8, All Bricks
Please limit fault reporting to water leaks and burst pipes to 044 801 9262/66 or after hours at 044 801 6300, as soon as you notice them.
USE WATER SPARINGLY
George Municipality appeals to the residents of George to USE WATER SPARINGLY and ONLY FOR BASIC NECESSITIES in particular at peak times. Peak times are between 07h00 – 09h00 in the morning, 12h00 to 14h00, and 17h00 to 20h00.
We are asking all residents, businesses (including construction companies), schools, sports facilities to please carefully review their use of drinking water and to make a conscious decision to cut back on wastage, and the unnecessary use of drinking water.
Please use our drinking water sparingly and remember water is a precious commodity.
_________________________________________________________________________
Issued George Mun, 22 January 2022, 19h30
George Municipality continues to implement water throttling in order to replenish water reservoir levels with drinking water. All areas will experience low water pressure and we ask that residents not phone in to report low pressure.
Please limit fault reporting to water leaks and burst pipes to 044 801 9262/66 or after hours at 044 801 6300, as soon as you notice them.
USE WATER SPARINGLY
George Municipality appeals to the residents of George to USE WATER SPARINGLY and ONLY FOR BASIC NECESSITIES in particular at peak times. Peak times are between 07h00 – 09h00 in the morning, 12h00 to 14h00, and 17h00 to 20h00.
WATER TRUCKS
Water trucks will remain on site as follows until 21h00 tonight and be in place as of 06h00 tomorrow morning ( 23/01/2022)
• Zone 6, Imizamo Yethu High School
• Zone 1 Skamp Str
• Zone 8, Police Station
• Zone 4, Thembalethu Primary
• Zone 9, Community Hall
• Zone 6, Asazani
• Zone 6, Roman Catholic Church
• Spar, Wellington Street
• Caledon Street
• Blanco, Maitland Street
• Wilderness Heights
We are asking all residents, businesses (including construction companies), schools, sports facilities to please carefully review their use of drinking water and to make a conscious decision to cut back on wastage, and the unnecessary use of drinking water.
Please use our drinking water sparingly and remember water is a precious commodity
_________________________________________________________________________
PUBLIC NOTICE: UPDATE Water throttling implemented
Issued George Mun, 22 January 2022, 14h30
George Municipality continues to implement water throttling in order to replenish water reservoir levels with drinking water. All areas will experience low water pressure and we ask that residents not phone in to report low pressure. Limit fault reporting to water leaks and burst pipes to 044 801 9262/66 or after hours at 044 801 6300, as soon as you notice them.
USE WATER SPARINGLY
George Municipality appeals to the residents of George to USE WATER SPARINGLY and ONLY FOR BASIC NECESSITIES in particular at peak times. Peak times are between 07h00 – 09h00 in the morning, 12h00 to 14h00, and 17h00 to 20h00.
PUBLIC NOTICE: UPDATE Water throttling implemented
Issued George Mun, 22 January 2022, 14h30
George Municipality continues to implement water throttling in order to replenish water reservoir levels with drinking water. All areas will experience low water pressure and we ask that residents not phone in to report low pressure. Limit fault reporting to water leaks and burst pipes to 044 801 9262/66 or after hours at 044 801 6300, as soon as you notice them.
USE WATER SPARINGLY
George Municipality appeals to the residents of George to USE WATER SPARINGLY and ONLY FOR BASIC NECESSITIES in particular at peak times. Peak times are between 07h00 – 09h00 in the morning, 12h00 to 14h00, and 17h00 to 20h00.
WATER TRUCKS
Water trucks are dispatched as follows:
Thembalethu
• All bricks and France – truck will roam
• NMB Four Way Stop
• Zone 8 Police Station
• Zone 4 Thembalethu Primary
• Zone 6 Roman Catholic Church
• One truck roaming outerlying areas of Thembalethu
George
• Spar, Wellington Street
• Botanical Gardens
Pacaltsdorp
• Truck at Traffic Dept
• Truck at Traffic Light, Delville Park / Smartie town.
• New Dawn Park, close to school
Blanco
• Maitland Street / Fairview
MEDIA STATEMENT: URGENT APPEAL TO SAVE DRINKING WATER – Municipality embarks on a Water Saving Programme
Issued George Municipality, 20 January 2022
George Municipality has over the past year, following extensive pipe bursts throughout the year, as well as the infrastructure damage caused by 22 November and 06 December 2021 floods, reported to the public that the use of drinking water per day in George is currently higher than the amount of water that is being purified by our water treatment works. During last year the Annual Average Daily Demand for drinking water was 32 Ml per day and the current water treatment works output per day is 38Ml This is produced daily by the Old Water Treatment Works and the New Water Treatment Works which are both operating optimally.
WHY ARE WE RUNNING SHORT OF DRINKING WATER
There are several other factors involved, which include George being a city that offers an attractive lifestyle to families wishing to leave other provinces. We have just come through a very successful festive season with a welcome influx of visitors and our accommodation establishments remain well booked at present. The weather has improved considerably and the warmer weather means that our average daily demand is hovering at 38-39 Megalitres (Ml) per day, with peak days reaching even 40Ml/day.
Due to the disaster damage to infrastructure, the main storage reservoirs could never recover their storage capacity adequately to act as a backup for the high season demand, and the severely reduced storage available is continually being depleted further to make up the deficit between the peak season demand and the production capacity of the Old and New WTW that can produce a combined volume of 38Ml per day. This means that the municipality is meeting the daily requirement but has reached critically low storage volume in the main reservoirs that supplement the daily shortfall.
Replenishing the storage capacity in the reservoirs is of paramount importance as this acts as emergency storage in the event of major pipe bursts, unplanned outages at the WTW, or any other major event that impacts the potable water system. Currently, the volumes in the main storage reservoirs cannot provide this security of supply.
FORWARD PLANNING
Forward planning is in place and the remedial and capacity (20Ml) extension projects funded by the BFI grant will extend the water treatment capacity for George and will be implemented in two phases over three years. The tender for the 20Ml Water Treatment Works has closed and construction of this plant should start within the next few months. The full construction period will however stretch over several years.
The overall funding required to ensure potable water security in the George system is R1.197 billion and the funding will be provided over the next forty (40) months for the full phases of the Potable Water Security and Remedial Works projects. The first allocation of R81.345 million has been approved and was included in the 2021/22 Adjustments Budget tabled in November 2021. There are currently 8 sub-components in various stages of procurement and implementation.
George Municipality has applied for R238m disaster funding for remedial work required to infrastructure damaged during the floods of November/December 2021. This includes remedial work to various pipelines that were damaged and remain vulnerable. To carry out these repairs certain bulk pipelines will need to be “shut off”, but this can only be carried out if there is the security of emergency supplies and the volume in the main reservoirs is stable.
BUT THE GARDEN ROUTE DAM IS FULL?
Residents should note that although the GARDEN ROUTE DAM LEVEL remains at 100%, this is RAW WATER storage and not POTABLE or DRINKING WATER supply. The raw water needs to be treated at the George Old and New Water Treatment Facilities before it goes to the main potable water storage reservoirs for distribution into the reticulation system. The current water demand is higher than the production rate at these facilities.
WHAT IS THE MUNICIPALITY DOING TO SAVE WATER RIGHT NOW?
To ensure our residents have continuous access to drinking water the municipality is embarking on a Water Saving Programme. We are asking all residents, businesses (including construction companies), schools, sports facilities to please carefully review their use of drinking water and to make a conscious decision to cut back on wastage, and the unnecessary use of drinking water.
The municipality is aware that such a program will require extensive awareness as well as a review of our municipal usage.
With immediate effect, the following is being put in place at all municipal sites:
• All municipal sports fields and facilities will immediately stop watering fields/gardens.
• Hippo Water Savers for toilet cisterns to reduce the volume of water used per flush will be installed, and push taps will replace manual free-flow taps for all bathroom facilities. The process to procure and install these is underway with implementation as soon as possible.
The Hippo Water Saver saves up to 3 litres of water every time a toilet is flushed and is ideal for older toilets. Made from durable, heavy-gauge polyethylene, the Hippo bag opens in a box shape underneath the large cistern float. When the toilet is flushed, the water confined within the Hippo is the volume saved. Push taps are more water-saving because they have a controlled water stream that limits water use. Push taps are a cost-effective solution to reduce water consumption and also improve and maintain hygiene.
• Our water leak teams have been supplemented with additional staff and are working on resolving Indigent water leakages as quickly as is possible. Walkthrough inspections are being conducted in certain areas of George that are known for not reporting water leaks and infrastructure is being checked for any unreported leakages.
• Screening of illegal car washes will be undertaken and legal car washes will be asked to continue using water sparingly. Many of these already recycle water as a standard practice.
• High water users will be contacted by our Finance department to raise awareness of excess consumption and ensure that no leaks are causing the excess usage.
• Burst pipes and other water-related matters are being dealt with to minimize water loss.
• The municipality has asked all of their building and construction service providers, as well as those working privately, to either make use of RAW WATER for construction purposes which can be obtained at the water treatment plant at the Denneoord new water treatment plant OR where applicable to use TREATED EFFLUENT WATER which can be obtained at the Gwaiing wastewater treatment plant. This is common practice during periods of drought or potable water supply constraints.
WHAT CAN THE PUBLIC DO TO SAVE DRINKING WATER?
George Municipality appeals to the residents of George to USE WATER SPARINGLY and ONLY FOR BASIC NECESSITIES in particular during peak times.
Peak times are between 07h00 – 09h00 in the morning, 12h00 to 14h00, and 17h00 to 20h00.
• Please do not water your garden with a hosepipe. Use rainwater tanks where available. Only water when it is cool- to reduce evaporation and wastage.
• Don’t wash your car using a hosepipe. Use a water bucket instead
• Don’t fill your swimming pool or hose down your driveway with drinking water.
• Sports facilities and schools are asked to please not irrigate fields unless using stored rainwater.
• Please only use drinking water for necessities – close taps properly, fix leaks at home – this will save you money each month!
• MOST IMPORTANTLY PLEASE Report water leaks and burst pipes to 044 801 9262/66 or after hours at 044 801 6300, OR via our formal channels of gmun@george.gov.za or George Municipal APP. Each fault must be correctly logged and receive a reference number to save time in assigning repair teams.
GEORGE MUNICIPALITY DAM WATER UPDATE: 19 JANUARY 2022
Dam level: 100% (unchanged)
Estimated level at new dam wall height: 97%
Rainfall since 12 January 2022: 2mm
Public Notice: Water pressure and no water issues
Issued George Mun, 19 January 2022
George Municipality is aware that certain areas of George are experiencing very low water pressure and/or no water. The fault has been identified and will be addressed. The system is expected to normalize within an hour. Please ensure all taps indoors and outdoors are switched off in the interim to avoid loss of water.
Kindly do not phone in to report low water pressure or no water – we are fully aware of the situation.
We apologize for the inconvenience.
Letter to Eskom and NERSA not to proceed with 20,5% increase in Eskom tariffs, Friday 14 January 2022
Issued on behalf of Executive Mayor Leon Van Wyk by George Municipal Communications Department
As Executive Mayor of George Municipality, I have today written to both NERSA and the CEO of Eskom on behalf of the citizens of George to appeal to them not to proceed with proposed 20,5% increase in Eskom tariffs.
It is simply unfair, unjustified and unaffordable for citizens to continue to be burdened by increases in excess of the inflation rate. Many citizens are struggling to make ends meet. The pandemic and the national lockdown has led to the loss of many jobs.
Every time that Eskom increases its prices above the inflation rate, it places further pressure on municipalities who are required to deliver a basket of essential services, viz water, sewerage, refuse, electricity, roads and stormwater, etc to citizens. The effect of electricity increases above the inflation rate then requires municipalities to compensate by reducing increases on the other services in an effort to make the overall basket of services more affordable to our consumers. This results in less money being available to provide for adequate maintenance on water, sewerage, roads and other infrastructure. As a result many more municipalities are struggling to remain financially viable.
George has never defaulted on an Eskom account and those municipalities who regularly pay, carry the burden of non-paying municipalities. Eskom’s inability to collect from defaulting municipalities is now giving rise to these massive increases. Possibly Eskom should be providing an incentive to those municipalities who regularly pay their accounts.
While I am highly appreciative of the efforts of the Eskom CEO to improve efficiencies, reduce debt, etc in the massive turnaround at Eskom, there is an urgent need to reduce the bloated salary bill, stop the mismanagement, inflated tenders, corruption, etc and recover the outstanding debt not being paid by defaulters.
It is therefore an extreme injustice that ordinary citizens of George — and, indeed, residents of every municipality in the country — should be forced to bear the cost of Eskom’s inability to fix its own problems. The increase should be no higher than the inflation rate of 5,5%.
Ends.
Festive season wrap for George!
George is experiencing a bumper festive season with our tourism division recording 630 enquiries through our offices based in George, Wilderness, and Tourism. 41% of enquiries were related to ‘things to do’ and tourism information, 35% were accommodation related and 24% were general enquiries. Occupation figures in Quarter 4 2021 were on a steep upward trend already and the preliminary December feedback is that the private sector has experienced a moderately good festive season. Forward bookings are also showing that accommodation establishments will enjoy a longer season than 2020.
EVENTS
Despite the Covid-19 Regulations, several events stood out with a highlight being the expanded George Tens festival, heralded by former coach Springbok Heyneke Meyer. The event was sold out at Covid-19 restriction capacities, with 2,000 spectators per day over 4 days, and consisted of an impressive 58 rugby ‘tens’ teams, 22 golfing 4-balls, 12 netball teams, and 10 lawn bowls teams per program day. George Municipality also partnered with the Pacaltsdorp Night Race, featuring a 10km and 5km race.
PAVEMENT PERMITS
In a bid to boost the local economy, the Municipality also initiated the concept of a ‘pavement permit’ to assist restaurants in terms of capacity constraints with the implementation of social distancing measures due to COVID-19. The ‘pavement permit’ would provide restaurants with additional floor space to place their tables. The initiative was very well-received by local businesses and the Planning Directorate is looking to expand on such ideas in the future.
SAFE SEASON
As far back as October last year, George Municipality announced that for the 2021 Festive Season, safety and service delivery would be the key focuses for the municipal administration. The Festive Season Monitoring Committee met daily from 1 December and will hold its final meeting this week Friday. A debriefing will be held before the end of January 2022 to review and begin planning for the 2022 Festive Season.
All of the Municipal departments were represented as role players included SAPS, SanParks, NSRI, Lifeguard representatives. Problems that were raised were dealt with efficiently and immediately and these included lifesavers, water quality, parking issues, safety at beaches, alcohol, fireworks, events as well as standard municipal service delivery which continued unabated through the festive season in terms of refuse collection, water and electricity, building control, financial services, etc.
Feedback received to date from businesses, residents, and visitors is that this is one of the best seasons they have experienced overall with specific reference to the management of the beaches on busy days. Dr Michele Gratz thanked the municipal teams as well as all of the roleplayers for the huge effort put into making it a successful season. “This was a big team effort which George Municipality intends building on for future seasons.”
STAKEHOLDER COLLABORATION
The Festive Season Monitoring Committee and operations over the festive season were undertaken in collaboration with SANParks and NSRI Wilderness.
SANparks Section Ranger: Wilderness National Park Jonathan Britten noted that this peak summer holiday season in Wilderness was very busy and a much need economic boost for local businesses. “The Wilderness National Park is inherently interwoven with the town and suburbs of Wilderness and the scenic beauty is big drawcard for tourism but if the area is not safe and public services not effective this would impact negatively on the environment and local economy.
“SANParks is grateful that the George Municipality led an integrated and multi stakeholder collaborative team approach to ensure that all visitors and residents of Wilderness and the greater George had a positive and safe experience during this very busy time. It was delightful to see so many happy holiday makers enjoying our beaches, trails and waterbodies knowing that we had a very dedicated team on the beat daily ensuring everyone’s safety and that the beaches and facilities were always clean. Much success lay in the Festive Season Monitoring Committee meeting daily, where required plans and deployments were adjusted as needed and this was not just all talk, it was common to see the various Municipal Directors, Senior Managers and the Municipal Manager on the ground engaging with the public and overseeing implementations of plans. Impactful leadership was the order of the day,” said Britten.
“This holiday season proved the value of partnerships, dedication and teamwork working towards a common goal. The partnerships and operational effectiveness between the George Municipality, SANParks, NSRI, SAPS, Forensic Pathology Services, Wilderness Rate Payers and Residents Association is an asset for Wilderness.”
NSRI Wilderness, Michael Vonk recognized that strong leadership, collaboration between all stakeholders, and detailed planning were critical factors in this year’s successful festive season. “The beaches have been exceptionally busy, especially since New Year’s Day and everyone has gone above and beyond, working very long hours to ensure the public have been able to safely enjoy our magnificent beaches.” Vonk highlighted the role law enforcement, SAPS, and other security service has played in preventing the consumption of alcohol on the beaches, along with the prevention activities by lifeguards as contributing to the first season with no drowning incidents on the beach in many years.
EMERGENCY SERVICES
Lifeguards were deployed at Gwaing Beach, Herold’s Bay, Victoria Bay, Wilderness Leentjiesklip, and Wilderness Salinas on a full-time daily basis from 7 – 7 and will remain in place until 31 January 2022. A total of 20 saves and 40 help outs were performed by these well-trained youngsters up to and including 10 January. 70 First Aid assists were handled with 4 cases requiring ambulance transportation.
Emergency Services were kept busy and attended to 9 formal structure fires and 13 informal structure fires. Regrettably, one life was lost in an informal structure fire. Fire officials also attended to 38 motor vehicle accidents with a total of 51 patients treated. The worst accident they deal with occurred in early December with the loss of 3 young lives on N2. Recovery services worked for 8 hours on 31 December to retrieve a vehicle that went over the barrier at Wilderness, Dolphin Point Lookout, and landed on the railway line. The driver miraculously escaped with minor injuries.
TRAFFIC MANAGEMENT / PARKING / POINT DUTY
George Traffic Services actively patrolled all municipal areas in collaboration with Western Cape Provincial Traffic including participating in regular roadblocks. Traffic flow was managed as best possible in particular at congested intersections such as the Garden Route Mall, the exit ramp to Mossel Bay on Knysna Road, and the airport intersection.
Temporary road signs were made up and installed together with traffic cones to ensure compliance in terms of parking, to prevent illegal parking, direct vehicles to parking areas as well as ease the flow of traffic making use of the Drop and Go areas successfully implemented in Victoria Bay, Herolds Bay, and Wilderness.
An additional 30 pointsmen/women assisted at busy traffic intersections and shopping malls, at beaches to close off roads, and with Drop and Go areas. Together with our traffic wardens they managed parking at the beaches to avoid obstruction, assisted on the N2 to ensure safe access for beachgoers, and generally addressed congestion throughout the CBD when needed. Teething problems were experienced but the pointsmen quickly became a huge asset to the municipality and will be considered again for the next festive season. Traffic wardens were placed with the Point duty officers at all beaches to mentor and upskill them.
Special arrangements have been made for any motorists who were directed through a red traffic light by our pointsmen and noted the cameras flashing. You should not receive the fine, but should a few slip through representations can be made to smagxwalisa@george.gov.za
The Vehicle Testing Station offered 3 days in December and 3 in early January where a free 10 Point check could be done on your vehicle before traveling. This was a new service and 23 motorists took advantage of it.
BLUE FLAG BEACHES AND CLEANSING
Wilderness, Salinas remains a full Blue Flag beach until 31 January 2022, and Herold’s Bay and Victoria Bay obtained Pilot Blue Flag status. Compliance in terms of the international standards, included high standards of water quality monitoring, public safety and lifeguard services, and well-maintained coastal amenities.
Fl
Flooding and heavy rainfall in early December pushed tons of debris down the rivers which fouled up the beaches. Our cleaning teams together with Working on Fire crews, worked non-stop for days to clear Herold’s Bay, Victoria Bay, Ballot’s Bay, Wilderness beach from Leentjiesklip to Salina’s beach, Gwaiing Beach, and Kaaimans mouth. Over 1300 black bags of refuse and debris were collected in a short space of time and at one point a grader was brought in to assist with the volume of debris that needed to be removed.
Our Beach cleaning teams worked until 23h00 on many nights and started at 02h00 on New Year’s Day to ensure that the beaches were clean for the first beachgoers the next morning. The cleaning teams also did sterling work in keeping the beach ablution facilities in excellent condition despite heavy usage. Our CBD cleansing teams kept the town clean and neat for visitors.
BEACH MONITORS AND LAW ENFORCEMENT
George Municipality was adamant that no alcohol would be allowed on our beaches and confiscated bottles to the value of R20156. Our law enforcement officials estimate that they showed away alcohol to an estimated value of R52 000 (ie beachgoers agreed to either dispose of themselves and/or return items to their vehicle). Neighborhood Watches, Community Police Forums as well as the SAPS worked closely with the Municipality with regards to Community Safety. The confiscated alcohol will be handed over to SAPS to store and ultimately dispose of.
FIREWORKS
George Municipality implemented a complete ban on the setting off of fireworks, fire-crackers, flares, paper lanterns, and other such paraphernalia in the George municipal area. Over 169 visits were undertaken to retail outlets and an estimated R25 400 worth of fireworks were confiscated (retail value) with 25 fines issued totaling R59 000.
MUNICIPAL OFFICES REMAINED OPEN – SERVICE DELIVERY ONGOING
In previous year’s the municipal buildings have been closed between Christmas and New Year with only minimal staff on standby. This year the buildings were only closed on Public Holidays and our directorates faced huge challenges with major pipe bursts occurring on 29 December and several extended power outages taxing all of our officials to the limit. However, amid the crisis and festive season chaos, service delivery continued unabated. Our Planning division processed 158 plans in-season with 86 approved, which was 80 residential, 6 non-residential. 16 applications (14 residential and 2 non-residential) remain in circulation. The remaining 56 (52 residential and 4 non-residential) were not approved due to either not complying and/or additional information being required. Furthermore, a total of 55 (54 residential and 1 non-residential) Certificates of Occupancy were issued.
The Building Control division was equally busy with building control contraventions and complaints that were able to be addressed expeditiously over the festive season. A total of 54 residential occupation certificates and 1 non-residential were issued. 19 complaints were received and addressed.
New Senior Communicator for George Municipality
George Municipality welcomes Ntobeko Mangqwengqwe who joins our communications team within the office of the Municipal Manager as Senior Communications and IGR officer. Ntobeko comes to us from Oudtshoorn Municipality with over 12 years of local government communication and spokesperson experience.
He is 43 years of age and hails from Klipplaat, Eastern Cape. He moved to Oudtshoorn to continue his high school career and matriculated at Imizamo Yethu High School in George. He completed a Diploma in Journalism and was employed with SAPS Western Cape media center, George, as a media liaison official/spokesperson from 2006 to 2008. He also freelanced for the Oudtshoorn Courant from 2000 to 2001.
Ntobeko holds a diploma in Public Relations Management from Unisa. He has completed his NQF level 7 programme in Communication Science and is now studying towards BA Hons: Integrated Organisational Communication. He is registered with the Public Relations Institute of Southern Africa (PRISA), as a Chartered Public Relations Practitioner (CPRP). PRISA is a professional body for communication and Public Relations practitioners.
New appointments in Planning and Building Control reap rewards
In the photograph from the back left are: Martin Botha, Town Planner; Fakazile Vava, Town Planner; Khuliso Mukhovaha,Town Planner; Robert Janse Van Rensburg, Town Planner. In the front from left are Amelia Lombard, Town Planner; Eddie Koeberg, Assistant Building Control Officer; Luthando Fatyela, Assistant Building Control Officer; Mogamat Fickerie Toyer, Manager Building Control; Mkhululi Nyeka, Assistant Building Control Officer and Winsley Meyer, Intern Town Planner. Not present Michelle Lee, Intern ISDG GIS.
A number of new appointments in the Planning and Building Control division is already reaping rewards for the George Municipality. In previous year’s the municipal buildings have been closed between Christmas and New Year with only minimal staff on standby. This year the buildings were only closed on the Public Holidays and work continued at the usual pace. In terms of plans – 158 were processed in the season with 86 approved, which was 80 residential, 6 non-residential. 16 applications (14 residential and 2 non-residential) remain in circulation. The remaining 56 (52 residential and 4 non-residential) were not approved due to either not complying and/or additional information being required. Furthermore, a total of 55 (54 residential and 1 non-residential) Certificates of Occupancy were issued.
Five new town planners, one intern town planner and one ISDG GIS intern are welcome additions to the team.
Robert Henk Janse Van Rensburg is married and moved to George from Durban where he worked as Town Planner at K2m Environmental (Pty) Ltd. He achieved his Bachelors in Urban and Regional Planning and Masters in Environmental Sciences from North-West University, Potchefstroom. His hobbies of hiking and running, fit right into the lifestyle offered by working and living in George. He is looking forward to experiencing all of the activities the Garden Route has to offer.
Khuliso Jafter Mukhovha is a registered planner with over ten years working experience at both local and provincial government level. He achieved his Bachelors in Urban and Regional Planning from the University of Venda as well as a certificate in GIS and Public Management. He is originally from Ha-Mashua in Limpopo Province and is looking forward to enjoying his hobbies of travelling, hiking and soccer to name a few in George.
Amelia Lombard obtained her MSc in Urban and regional planning at the North-West University Potchefstroom Campus. She has a passion for sustainability and hopes to make a positive change in the world. She is excited to be a part of the team at George.
Phillippus Martinus Botha, known as Martin obtained his Masters in Urban and Regional Planning and his Bachelors in Spatial Planning Honours at the University of the Free State. He also has a Batchelors in Development and Environment from Stellenbosch University. He worked as a Town Planner for seven years at Urban Dynamics, Cape Town) for 7 years and is professionally registered with SA Council for Planners since 2017 (SACPLAN): Pr. Pln. A/2518/2017). He is married to Talitha and a great sports fan, in particular of Manchester United. He hopes to make a positive contribution to George Municipality.
Fakazile Vava was appointed Town Planner in November 2021 after completing his two year internship at George Municipality.
Winsley Leighton Meyer is a local born and raised in George. He has been appointed as an Intern town planner and obtained his B-Tech Town and Regional Planning at Cape Peninsula University of Technology. He started his internship way back in 2014 with George, has interned at Oudtshoorn Municipality and most recently worked as a Candidate Planner at Delplan Urban Consulting. He joins the sporty group with his love of rugby and golf.
Michelle Lee joins us as GIS Intern for Planning and Development. She has a Bachelor of Science Geoscience( Geology & Geography) and Bachelor of Science Honours Geographical Information Systems from Nelson Mandela University.
BUILDING CONTROL
Our Building Control division was equally busy with building control contraventions and complaints that were able to addressed expeditiously over the festive season. A total of 54 residential occupation certificates and 1 non-residential were issued. 19 complaints were received and addressed.
Our new Manager Building Control is Mogamat Fickerie Toyer who comes to us with over 25 years’ experience within the build environment in both the private (10 years) and Local Government environment (+20 years). He obtained his qualifications in both Architecture and Interior Design from the Port Elizabeth Technikon (NMMU) and has computer programming studies under his belt as well. He is married with 3 children aged 15, 12 and 11 years old. Fickerie spent 20 years at Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality, and then moved to Drakenstein as Manager Building Control in 2017 before accepting the post at George Municipality.
Eddie Koeberg has been appointed as Assistant Building Control Officer. He studied Building and Civil Construction at Northlink College in Cape Town and worked as a building inspector at Bitou Municipality previously. He is a local to Plettenberg Bay and married to Gillian. He is a rugby, football and soccer fan(Arsenal) and has reached the top 30 in Idols SA 2013 and 2014. He is a passionate musician, vocalist and performing artist skilled in the acoustic guitar
Luthando Fatyela appointed as Assistant Building Control Officer obtained his National Diploma in Building and Btech in Construction Management at the Cape Peninsula University in Cape Town. He has worked as a Building Inspector for the Drakenstein Municipality and worked as a Construction Supervisor for several companies around Cape Town. He was born and raised in a small township called Zwelethemba in Worcester and is another soccer fan, Kaizer Chiefs being his team of choice. He is also an avid chess player.
Our third Assistant Building Control Officer is Mkhululi Nyeka, known as MK. He obtained his National Diploma in Building and BTech in Construction Management at Cape Peninsula University of Technology CPUT and previously worked at Mossel Bay Municipality as an Assistant Building Inspector with an assignment of 28 areas of the town. He was born and raised in Cape Town and slo enjoys working outside and spending his free time exploring.
RESERVOIR LEVELS REMAIN LOW – CONSERVE WATER PLEASE
15 January 2022, 10h00
Executive Mayor Leon Van Wyk and Portfolio Councillor for Civil Engineering Services Capital Expenditure and BFI, Jackie Von Brandis yesterday visited the Denneoord Water Treatment Works to observe the water Purification Process.
Mayor Leon Van Wyk said today, “We know that the current increased demand for water is due to a higher number of visitors and the hot summer weather.
However, in order to improve our water security to benefit the entire city and it’s residents, we ask you to please reduce your usage so that the margin between treatment and usage can increase to replenish our reservoirs.
We need the public’s cooperation (residents and visitors alike) on this please.”
Please continue to reduce your consumption to only basic necessities.
Water Throttling at 30% remains in place and LOW WATER PRESSURE WILL BE experienced in all areas.
We ask that residents not phone in to report low pressure.
PLEASE Limit fault reporting to water leaks and burst pipes to 044 801 9262/66 or after hours at 044 801 6300, as soon as you notice them.
FUTURE PLANNING
The Potable Water Security and Remedial Works projects funded by grant funding will extend the water treatment capacity for George and will be implemented in two phases over three years. The tender for the 20Ml Water Treatment Works has closed and construction of this plant should start within the next few months. The full construction period will however stretch over several years.
URGENT PUBLIC NOTICE: POTABLE WATER RESERVOIR LEVELS ARE CRITICAL – WATER THROTTLING TO BE IMPLEMENTED for 48 hours
George Municipality, 12 January 2022, 20h26
Executive Mayor Leon Van Wyk calls on the residents and visitors of George to please reduce their water consumption. Despite repeated notices requesting the public to reduce the consumption of potable (drinking) water since 29 December, the daily Average Water Demand has remained at 39.5 Megalitres which means more water is being used than is being purified by our water treatment works. The Annual Average Daily Demand for drinking water during the year is 32 Ml and the current water treatment works output per day is 38Ml.
IMPLEMENT WATER THROTTLING
George Municipality will WITH IMMEDIATE EFFECT implement water throttling at 30% which is a common practice to limit network losses during night flows. This means very low water pressure in the water reticulation network to reduce losses.
LOW WATER PRESSURE WILL BE EXPERIENCED
All areas will experience low water pressure and we ask that residents not phone in to report low pressure. Limit fault reporting to water leaks and burst pipes to 044 801 9262/66 or after hours at 044 801 6300, as soon as you notice them.
USE WATER SPARINGLY
George Municipality appeals to the residents of George to USE WATER SPARINGLY and ONLY FOR BASIC NECESSITIES in particular at peak times. Peak times are between 07h00 – 09h00 in the morning, 12h00 to 14h00, and 17h00 to 20h00.
Please do not water your garden, wash your car, fill your swimming pool or hose down your driveway with drinking water. Sports facilities, schools please do not water your sportsfields unless using stored rainwater.
The Civil Engineering Services Department will closely monitor and assess the system over the next 48 hours.
FUTURE PLANNING
The Potable Water Security and Remedial Works projects funded by grant funding will extend the water treatment capacity for George and will be implemented in two phases over three years. The tender for the 20Ml Water Treatment Works has closed and construction of this plant should start within the next few months. The full construction period will however stretch over several years.
The overall funding required is R1.197 billion and which will be provided over the next forty (40) months for the full phases of the Potable Water Security and Remedial Works projects. The first allocation of R81.345 million has been approved and was included in the 2021/22 Adjustments Budget tabled in November 2021.
ALL CLEAR FOR SWIMMING AND WATER SPORTS – UPDATE ON TOUW RIVER
Water Quality – 7 January 2022, 12h00
Issued George Municipality
Water samples for the Touw River have returned all clear – Acceptable Limits for full contact.
Swimming and Water Sports is permitted at all areas of the Touw River including River Mouth and Lagoon within designated swimming areas.
George Municipality reported a sewerage spill at the Ebb and Flow pumpstation on the 24th December 2021. The spill was treated and testing of the river water was undertaken in three areas (upstream, lagoon and river mouth) on a daily basis to monitor the water quality for the safety of residents and visitors, as well as any possible impact on the Blue Flag Beach at Wilderness.
Testing has continued throughout the festive season and erratic results received were cause for concern. George Municipality thoroughly reviewed our Ebb and Flow Sewerage pumpstation equipment and Incident Alert System and have ruled out further failure. A comprehensive investigation of all private and business conservancy tanks has been launched.
This investigation has to date revealed a number of private homeowners who are non-complaint i.e. either allowing their conservancy tanks to overflow and/or having illegal connections thereby contaminating groundwater and stormwater which discharges into the river. Responsible homeowners have been alerted to where there are issues for rectification and action will be taken against non-compliant homeowners.
We thank those residents who have willingly allowed our officials access to their property. Legal action can and will be taken against those property owners who with no valid reason, refuse George Municipality access to their property. Our officials are wearing identifying tags and will provide the homeowner with a letter indicating reason for their requiring access. The full investigation is expected to be concluded within the next 10 days.
Residents and visitors are reminded that the potable water in Wilderness area remains completely safe as the intake from the Touw river that feeds the Wilderness Waster Treatment Works is above the waterfall with a supplementary feed to Wilderness from George.
George Municipality together with SANparks has faced queries for alleged pollution this season and are working together to address and rectify the problem. The consistent water quality testing and subsequent investigation should result in a successful solution.
The Wilderness area holds great natural beauty, diverse and fragile eco-systems and is one of the Garden Route’s largest tourism drawcard. SANparks and George Municipality are committed to protecting and retaining this natural attraction and ensuring it is safe for all residents and visitors.
***************************************************************
6 January 2022, 13h45
Water samples for the Touw River have returned showing non-compliance for the River.
NO SWIMMING OR WATER SPORTS PERMITTED IN THE RIVER
Swimming and Water Sports ONLY PERMITTED at River Mouth and Lagoon area between Lifeguard Flags.
We ask the residents and visitors to adhere to safe swimming rules and follow instructions of the Lifeguards in the designated areas.
George Municipality continues to investigate the cause for non-compliance and water sampling will continue to monitor water quality with updates provided.
PUBLIC NOTICE: REMINDER OF WHEN LIFEGUARDS are on Beaches
The public are reminded that lifeguards currently remain on duty at Gwaing Beach, Herold’s Bay, Victoria Bay, Wilderness Leentjiesklip, Steps. Lagoon and Wilderness Salina’s on a full-time daily basis until 31 January 2022. They are at beaches in the George municipal area from 7 am-7 pm every day, including weekends and public holidays.
We strongly advise the public not to swim before 7am or after 7pm when lifeguards are no longer on the beach.
Wilderness – No swimming under the bridges, in the Mouth of the river due to dangerous currents and deep slopes, left of the Main Beach, at Kleinkrantz due to no lifeguards present.
Public swimming pools in Conville and Uniondale remain closed as a Covid-19 precaution.
PLEASE SWIM BETWEEN THE FLAGS AT BEACHES AND OBEY LIFEGUARD INSTRUCTIONS.
NSRI 082 990 5955
Fire 044 801 6300
Disaster Centre 044 801 6316
PUBLIC NOTICE: PLEASE Reduce Water Consumption
Issued George Municipality, 5 January 2022
The public is reminded that following three large pipe failures last week (27 December 2021) the George bulk water distribution and storage system is still recovering.
The Annual Average Water Demand (AADD) during the year is 32 Megalitres per day. From the 15th of December 2021, the AADD was 36 Megalitres per day, but over the past 5 days, it has reached an all-time high of 39.5 Megalitres per day.
Residents should note that although the DAM LEVEL remains at 100%, this is RAW WATER storage and not POTABLE or DRINKING WATER supply. The raw water is treated at the George Old and New Water Treatment Facilities prior to the distribution to our potable water storage reservoirs and reticulation system. The current water demand is higher than the production rate at these facilities.
RESIDENTS are requested to continue using water sparingly to allow our reservoirs to reach their full storage capacity.
GEORGE MUNICIPALITY DAM WATER UPDATE: 5 JANUARY 2022
Dam level: 100%(unchanged)
Estimated level at new dam wall height: 100%
Rainfall since 29 December 2021: 9mm
Demand/usage: 39,561 megalitres
Report water leaks and burst pipes to 044 801 9262/66 or after hours at 044 801 6300, as soon as you notice them.
31/12 @ 09h30
PUBLIC NOTICE: WATER OUTAGE – Update on Blanco and Malgas Pipebursts
Issued George Municipality
BLANCO Drinking(potable) water pipeline and Malgas Raw Water Pipeline
The Blanco drinking water pipeline (450mm) repair is completed and the line has been operational since last night. All residents should have water.
The bedding of the Malgas raw water supply pipeline continues and the gradual startup of the Malgas Pump Station is planned for late afternoon today. Refilling of the pipeline will take time before the pipeline can become fully operational.
RESIDENTS MUST PLEASE NOTE that the loss of stored drinking water in our main and Blanco reservoirs still need to be replenished. This will take a minimum of 3-5 days once the Malgas Pump Station is back online. Water pressure may remain poor in certain areas for the next 3 days.
RESIDENTS are requested to continue using water sparingly for at least the next THREE DAYS (3). We have noted that consumers ARE NOT REDUCING their use of water at all. The municipality will continue throttling our reservoir supply with water balancing. Residents throughout the city may note an effect on water pressure which will only be addressed once the entire network has stabilized.
30/12 @ 17h15
PUBLIC NOTICE: WATER OUTAGE – Update on Blanco and Malgas Pipebursts
Issued George Municipality
BLANCO Drinking(potable) water pipeline and Malgas Raw Water Pipeline
The Blanco drinking water pipeline (450mm) repair as well as the Malgas Raw Water Pipeline repair have been completed. Backfill of the Blanco 450 mm pipeline site has been completed and currently a 110mm pipe connection is being used to refill the 450mm with water. This is a slow process and will only be completed at approximately 20h00 this evening, after which the pipe can slowly be put under pressure.
A large portion of Blanco continues to be supplied with water from a smaller 200mm supplementary pipeline. Water trucks are not being utilized and will be withdrawn. Should anyone urgently require water they must please contact after hours number 044 8016300.
A reminder that the Blanco reservoir levels are very low and will also take time to replenish to an acceptable level.
Backfill is still in process at the Malgas Raw Water Pipeline site and the municipality with teams of WOF officials have used about 80 cubic meters of sand in the process. This process will continue till late tonight and the line is only expected to be opened tomorrow morning once the Blanco line is fully operational and deemed stable. The Malgas line provides 18Ml of raw water supply to the balancing dams and supplements the main 600mm raw water pipeline from the Garden Route Dam. The 600mm raw water pipeline is fully operational.
WHERE TO REPORT
044 801 6300
RESIDENTS MUST PLEASE NOTE that once the pipeline is fully operational the loss of stored drinking water in our main and Blanco reservoirs will still need to be replenished. This will take a minimum of 3-5 days. Water pressure may remain poor in certain areas for the next 3 days. RESIDENTS are requested to continue using water sparingly for at least the next TWO DAYS (2). The municipality will continue throttling our reservoir supply with water balancing. Residents throughout the city will note an effect on water pressure which will only be addressed when the entire network has stabilized.
********************************************************************************
30/12 @ 10h00
GARDEN ROUTE DAM Raw water pipeline
The Garden Route Dam raw water GRP pipeline (600mm) repair has been completed. Both water pumps from the Garden Route Dam are operating at full capacity and the raw water supply to the Water Treatment Works is sufficient. RESIDENTS MUST PLEASE NOTE that once the pipeline is fully operational the loss of stored drinking water in our reservoirs will need to be replenished. This will take a minimum of 3-5 days and the water pressure will remain poor for the next 3 days.
DRINKING WATER CAPACITY as at 10h00, 30 December
The current daily demand for drinking water remains at 36Ml and regrettably residents have made no attempt to use water sparingly. The current production of drinking water stands at 38Ml per day and our reservoirs require refilling to adequate storage capacity. RESIDENTS are requested to continue using water sparingly for at least the next TWO DAYS (2). The municipality will continue throttling our reservoir supply with water balancing. Residents throughout the city will note an effect on water pressure which will only be addressed when the entire network has stabilized.
BLANCO Drinking(potable) water pipeline and Malgas Raw Water Pipeline
The Blanco drinking water pipeline (450mm) repair as well as the Malgas Raw Water Pipeline repair have been completed with the assistance of Bitou and Oudtshoorn Municipal teams. Today the contractor is on site together with 20 Working on Fire Officials assigned by Garden Route District Municipality and will continue the process of backfilling with sandbags (60 cubes of sand has been ordered).
Once there is assurance that there is no movement the pipeline can be slowly reopened to test the integrity. Blanco continues to be supplied with water from a smaller 200mm supplementary pipeline however we are aware of the areas who do not have water and as such the Water Trucks (drinking water) will remain in place.
The Malgas line provides 18Ml of raw water supply and and supplements the main 600mm raw water pipeline. This pipeline will only be reopened once the Blanco Drinking water pipeline is fully operational.
WATER TRUCKS
Millies Superette – 1 truck
Blanco Community Hall – 1 truck
NG Church parking lot – 1 truck
Vrugte Street – 2 trucks
WHERE TO REPORT
If you have NO water please call in to the George Civil Engineering Services Call Centre 044 801 9262/6 – please provide contact details, street address and time when water supply stopped. PLEASE DO NOT REPORT LOW WATER PRESSURE – this is to be expected and we are fully aware of the issue.
THANK YOU
George Municipality would like to extend a warm thank you to the Garden Route District Municipality, Oudtshoorn, Bitou and Mossel Bay Municipality for their quick response and assistance during the busy festive season. We appreciate the willingness and generosity of spirit.
************************************************************************************
29/12 @ 18h00
Progress is being made with the three major pipe bursts that have occurred in George over the past 24 hours. The residents and visitors to George are requested to CONTINUE USING WATER SPARINGLY for the next three days (3) as the pipebursts will affect water supply and drinking water storage capacity for the city.
GARDEN ROUTE DAM Raw water pipeline
The Garden Route Dam raw water GRP pipeline (600mm) repair has progressed extremely well today. The testing of the repair is expected to start around 19h00 this evening with one pump from the Garden Route Dam to run from 20h00 and both to be running at full capacity by 08h00 tomorrow morning (30 December). This pipeline is the main supply of raw water to our balancing dams which in turn provides raw water to the Water Treatment Works for purification. Once the pipeline is fully operational to the balancing dams the public is reminded that the loss of stored drinking water in our reservoirs will need to be replaced. This will take a minimum of 3-5 days and the water pressure will remain poor for a few days.
BLANCO Drinking(potable) water pipeline
The Blanco drinking water pipeline (450mm) repair continues and is not expected to be completed until tomorrow. Currently Blanco is being supplied with water from a smaller 200mm supplementary pipeline however not all areas are receiving water and as such the Water Trucks (drinking water) will remain in place.
WATER TRUCKS will remain in place at positions below until 19h30 tonight. They will be in place as of 07h00 tomorrow morning (30 December).
Millies Superette – 1 truck
Blanco Community Hall – 1 truck
NG Church parking lot – 1 truck
Vrugte Street – 2 trucks
MALGAS Raw water pipeline
The repair to the Malgas raw water (500mm) pipeline that pumps raw water from the Malgas River to the balancing dam continues and is expected to be finished by tomorrow afternoon at the earliest. The Malgas line provides 18Ml of raw water supply and and supplements the main 600mm raw water pipeline.
DRINKING WATER CAPACITY as at 18h00, 29 December
The current daily demand for drinking water remains at 36Ml. With the Garden Route Dam raw water pipeline back online as of tomorrow (30 December) this will allow for the production of 38Ml per day. RESIDENTS are requested to continue using water sparingly for at least the next THREE DAYS (3) as we remind you that our reservoir storage capacity has been affected by the water outage and no water purification being undertaken. The municipality will continue throttling our reservoir supply with water balancing. Residents throughout the city will note an effect on water pressure which will only be addressed when the entire network has stabilized.
WHERE TO REPORT
If you have NO water please call in to the George Municipal After Hours Number on 044 801 6300, or the Garden Route Disaster Management Call Centre (24/7) on 044 805 5071. Please provide contact details, street address and time when water supply stopped. PLEASE DO NOT REPORT LOW WATER PRESSURE – this is to be expected under the circumstances..
An update on the situation will be provided tomorrow morning by 08h30.
THANK YOU
George Municipality would like to extend a warm thank you to the Garden Route District Municipality for the provision of water trucks as well as for making the Working on Fire officials available to assist with labour on the GR Dam pipeburst. The WOF team has worked extremely hard today and we appreciate them. We would also like to thank Oudtshoorn and Bitou Municipality for providing us with two Water teams to assist our officials, and Mossel Bay Municipality for allowing us to fill our tanker with drinking water at the Great Brak River Fire Station.
***********************************************************************************
29/12 @ 14h00
George Municipality has three major pipe bursts that have occurred over the past 24 hours. The residents and visitors to George are urgently requested to USE WATER SPARINGLY over the next 48 hours as the pipebursts will affect water supply to a large portion of the city.
GARDEN ROUTE DAM Raw water pipeline
The Garden Route Dam raw water GRP pipeline (700mm) that feeds the balancing dams burst early this morning. This pipeline is the main supply of raw water to our balancing dams which in turn provides raw water to the Water Treatment Works for purification. This pipeline burst has a major impact on the water supply for the entire city.
Repairs at the Garden Route Dam are progressing well with a contractor on site, together with additional assistance from Working of Fire officials. The Garden Route pipeline requires specialist knowledge in terms of repair work.
BLANCO Drinking(potable) water pipeline
The Blanco drinking water pipeline (450mm) burst 24 hours ago and has subsequently been repaired twice, it has now burst again for a third time at 2am this morning (29 December) and the municipal team is on site. The estimated time of repair is late this afternoon. Currently Blanco is being supplied with water from a smaller 200mm supplementary pipeline. Water Trucks (drinking water) are in place. Details below.
MALGAS Raw water pipeline
The Malgas raw water (500mm) pipeline that pumps raw water from the Malgas River to the balancing dam was fully repaired and in the process of being reopened. A second burst has however halted the process and this setback means that the final repair will be delayed again by 24 hours.
DRINKING WATER CAPACITY as at 13h30, 29 December
The municipality calculated the available drinking water this morning at 08h00 at 61Ml, inclusive of the Malgas line 18 Ml. With the Malgas repair now delayed again there is only 43 Ml supply of DRINKING WATER in our reservoirs and the current daily demand is approximately 36 Ml. This has made the situation even more urgent and we again plead with residents to heed our call to use water sparingly – don’t wash your car today, delay doing your washing, do not water your garden.
PLEASE ONLY USE WATER FOR ABSOLUTE NECESSITIES
The municipality has with immediate effect started throttling our reservoir supply with water balancing and residents will note that water pressure is affected. As the full network slows down there is the possibility that the outer lying areas will experience no water at all.
WHERE TO REPORT
If you have NO water please call in to the Garden Route Disaster Management Call Centre (24/7) on 044 805 5071 or George Municipal Civil Engineering Services Call Centre 044 801 9262/6 – please provide contact details, street address and time when water supply stopped. PLEASE DO NOT REPORT LOW WATER PRESSURE – this is to be expected and we are fully aware of the issue.
WATER TRUCKS are stationed at:
Millies Superette
Blanco Community Hall
Redberry Farm turnoff for surrounding residents
Fancourt
Cnr of Vrugte and Violet Street
A further update will be provided at 18h00.
Civil Engineering Services continues to appeal to the public who are aware of or see any visible water from what appears to be a burst pipe, to urgently report to 044 8019262/6 so that we can inspect and assess as quickly as possible.
Three major water pipe bursts over 24 hour period
Issued George Municipality
George Municipality has identified further infrastructure damage clearly resulting from the flash flooding that took place on 22 November 2021. Three major pipe bursts have taken place over the past 24 hours. The residents and visitors to George are urgently requested to USE WATER SPARINGLY over the next 48 hours as the pipebursts will affect water supply to a large portion of the city. The municipality is managing this crisis. Please note further details below.
GARDEN ROUTE DAM Raw water pipeline
The Garden Route Dam raw water GRP pipeline (700mm) that feeds the balancing dams burst early this morning. This pipeline is the main supply of raw water to our balancing dams which in turn provide raw water to the Water Treatment Works for purification. This pipeline burst has a major impact on the water supply for the entire city.
BLANCO Drinking(potable) water pipeline
The Blanco drinking water pipeline burst 24 hours ago and has subsequently been repaired twice, it has now burst again for a third time at 2am this morning (29 December). A team will be on site shortly to reopen and start working on repairs.
MALGAS Raw water pipeline
The Malgas raw water (500mm) pipeline that pumps raw water from the Malgas River to the balancing dam has been fully repaired. The George Civil Engineering teams will start this morning to systematically reopen the pipeline to ensure that the repair has held. This process will take several hours until certain that the repair is holding and the pipeline can be used to pump at full capacity into the balancing dam.
DURATION OF REPAIRS – GR Dam / Blanco
The repair timeline, subject to there being no additional problems is a minimum of 36 hours. Our teams have been working non-stop for 24 hours already and additional resources are being called in to assist. It must be noted that the Garden Route pipeline requires specialist knowledge in terms of repair work.
DRINKING WATER CAPACITY as at 08h00, 29 December
The municipality has 61 mega litres supply of DRINKING WATER in our reservoirs and the current daily demand is approximately 36 Ml. We ask that residents PLEASE heed our call to use water sparingly – don’t wash your car today, delay doing your washing, do not water your garden. PLEASE ONLY USE WATER FOR ABSOLUTE NECESSITIES
PLEASE USE WATER SPARINGLY
The municipality has with immediate effect started throttling our reservoir supply with water balancing and residents will note that water pressure is affected. As the full network slows down there is the possibility that the outer lying areas will experience no water at all.
WHERE TO REPORT
If you have NO water please call in to the Garden Route Disaster Management Call Centre (24/7) on 044 805 5071 or George Municipal Civil Engineering Services Call Centre 044 801 9262/6 – please provide contact details, street address and time when water supply stopped. PLEASE DO NOT REPORT LOW WATER PRESSURE – this is to be expected and we are fully aware of the issue.
The municipality is ensuring a supply of water trucks is available should they be required, but we hope that with your assistance and a reduction in the daily use of water, this will not be required. A further update will be provided at 13h00 and again at 18h00.
Civil Engineering Services continues to appeal to the public who are aware of or see any visible water from what appears to be a burst pipe, to urgently report to 044 8019262/6 so that we can inspect and assess as quickly as possible.