By IPS Correspondents
CAPE TOWN, Jan 29 2008 (IPS)

Water shortage is not uncommon in Cape Town, South Africa. For the past years the warm summer months – of November until February – saw water restrictions imposed by the city authorities. The restrictions prohibited residents from using potable water for the irrigation of lawns and gardens as well as using hosepipes to wash motor vehicles, pavements, and any movable or immovable structure.

These and other measures have proved to be relatively successful: The water levels at most dams and reservoirs in the area have increased to such an extent that for the first time in years no severe water restrictions had to be put in place over the past months – the warmest period in the Cape.

Water shortage nevertheless remains a looming threat to the region. One of the main causes is population growth, which has led to an increased demand for water. It is estimated that 16,000 families from elsewhere in South Africa migrate to the Cape every year.

To better regulate water demand and distribution, city authorities have launched a new water management system. This system revolves around special devices that are to be installed in homes across the city.

IPS correspondent Miriam Mannak spoke to Julian Rodkin, Cape Town’s district manager for water and sanitation, about this initiative and its benefits to both the people and the environment.

IPS: How does this water demand management system work?

When a household’s quota for the day is reached, the device shuts down the water flow. It will switch back on the next morning, at a time that is determined by the household.

When the water supply for the day is not used entirely, the remaining amount is carried over to the next day and so on.

IPS: How does this system help to save water?

JR: First and foremost, as a result of the water quotas, people only receive what they need and they only use what is given to them. We hope that, as a result of this, residents become more aware of their water consumption and save water.

Secondly, the system prevents water from being wasted. Remember that after reaching the daily quota, the water flow is being shut down. This means that, for instance in case of a leak, this system prevents thousands and thousands of litres from disappearing unnoticeably – litres for which the customer ends up paying.

The new water demand management system is of benefit to the city authorities as well, as it informs us of who utilizes what amount of water, and how much we are owed by the people for water distribution.

IPS: In what ways does this new system benefit consumers?

JR: As people become more aware of their water consumption, they start using the resource more carefully. Not only is that good for the environment, it is also good for their wallets.

Besides, our residents no longer face the financial consequences of leaks or leaving the tap open by accident: When the water supply is reached, it is shut off.

Based on our calculations, we estimate that an average monthly water bill should come down to around R30 [four dollars]. Consumers, who require more water and are committed to pay for that additional amount, can have the devices adjusted to their needs.

IPS: How many of such water demand meters have been installed so far?

JR: We will install these meters in every newly built house in Cape Town. So far we have priced thousands of homes across the city with such devices.

Those residents living in already built homes are also welcome to contact us if they are interested in having a water meter installed. The waiting period is about two weeks.

IPS: What does it cost to have a water management meter installed?

JR: It all depends on your personal situation. If we think your household requires such a device – for instance because you use a lot of water or if you live in a ‘dry’ area – the installation is free of charge.

However, when we find that a water meter is unnecessary for your household – and you want to go through with the installation – then the cost comes down to R450 [64 dollars]. This is a once-off fee. No additional costs are applicable after the installation, as the city is the responsible party for maintenance.

However, costs are applicable when the devices are being tampered with. If this happens, your water supply will be shut off immediately. Officials will have to come to reinstate the water supply. The costs that are involved as well as the fine are to be paid by the customer on the spot.

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