Knysna business community mobilises to avert ‘Day Zero’ water crisis

Knysna’s looming water crisis is not only placing pressure on residents, but is now beginning to hit one of the town’s most important economic lifelines, tourism.

Guesthouses and hospitality businesses say fears around a potential Day Zero are already translating into cancellations and growing uncertainty.

In a town that depends on tourism to drive its local economy, business owners in Knysna say fears around a possible Day Zero are already translating into cancellations and a slowdown in bookings, raising concerns about the impact on livelihoods.

 Lagoonа Inn owner Alison Pickler says her business has already started feeling the effects.

“So we had a lot of cancellations in December, locals having heard the bad news and not wanting to come. So, you know, the word is not pleasant because everyone seems to be panicking a lot, said Pickler. 

Some accommodation establishments say they are introducing water-saving measures and encouraging guests to use water responsibly.

Business owners are appealing to travellers not to cancel their trips, as Knysna works to avoid crossing the Day Zero threshold.

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