As ‘day zero’ looms for Knysna, Water & Sanitation Dept injects R20m in relief funds

The Department of Water and Sanitation (DWS) Minister Pemmy Majodina said her department will provide emergency support to the Knysna Municipality to help stabilise its water supply system.

Knysna's water supply system is presently facing critical water challenges.

The Akkerkloof Dam, the municipality’s primary water storage facility, is currently sitting at just 18% capacity, translating to an estimated 15 days of usable water at present consumption levels.

The department will make available R20 million in emergency relief funding, reprioritised from existing water services infrastructure grants.

Majodina said the funding, together with technical support, will be used to develop groundwater resources, easing pressure on strained surface water sources in Knysna's water supply system.

The department is also deploying technical engineering expertise to assess the Knysna Desalination Plant, with the aim of confirming refurbishment requirements to increase water production.

In addition, the department will assist the municipality to strengthen its water resources planning, ensuring improved long-term water security.

Majodina said they're also providing funding for feasibility studies into the development of a new small local dam.

She added that the intervention forms part of the government’s commitment to supporting municipalities facing water supply challenges and ensuring reliable access to water for residents and businesses in Knysna.

MAJODINA BACKS KNYSNA MUNICIPALITY ON CLASSIFYING TOWN AS DISASTER AREA

She has also voiced her support for the Knysna Municipality’s decision to classify the town as a disaster area amid the ongoing water crisis.

Last week, the Knysna Municipal Council resolved to declare the Garden Route town a local disaster area, as the region faces an intensifying water shortage.

Majodina said the move is necessary to ensure an urgent and coordinated government response.

The minister backs the municipality’s request to the provincial government to formally declare Knysna a disaster area.

She said such a declaration will allow the government to reprioritise critical resources and deploy skilled personnel from various sectors to stabilise the situation.

Majodina also emphasised that water security remains a national priority and that the government will continue working closely with local authorities to address the crisis and protect affected communities.

While the provincial government is yet to decide on the municipality's request – its Cabinet is set to meet this week to discuss Knysna’s water as well as the recent fires in the Overberg and Cape Winelands.