Lower dam levels at the Garden Route Dam serve as a reminder for all residents to use water responsibly The George Municipality has implemented Level 3 Emergency Water Tariffs with immediate effect after the Garden Route Dam dropped below 45%, increasing pressure on the local water supply. The dam level declined from 45.68% last week to 44.50% this week, with only 17mm of rainfall recorded over the past seven days. The continued drop has led to the escalation of water demand management measures from Level 2C to Level 2D, together with the implementation of stricter emergency tariffs.
The municipality confirmed that the decision follows the conclusion of a public participation process conducted in terms of Section 4 of the Water Services By-law, which closed at 12pm on Friday, December 19, 2025. While Level 2 emergency tariffs were initially expected, the further decline in dam levels made the move to Level 3 necessary. The process stems from a Special Council resolution taken on December 4, 2025, when the dam stood at 49%, approving tighter water restrictions in response to below-average rainfall and growing pressure on raw water supplies.
During the prescribed 14-day public participation period, comments and objections were received from residents and businesses. The municipality said all submissions were considered and written responses issued. Executive Mayor Browen Johnson noted the inputs received and approved responses and concessions where appropriate, without compromising the sustainability of the water supply system. Level 3 Emergency Water Tariffs will be reflected in the January 2026 municipal billing cycle and are aimed at discouraging excessive consumption and safeguarding limited potable water resources for essential use.
Read Full Article on Cape Argus
