Why a South African Beauty Spot May Be Running Out of Water
By Pumza Fihlani
Reporting from Knysna
The picturesque tourist resort of Knysna, known for its turquoise waters, sandy beaches, and pleasant weather, is facing a dire water crisis. Residents fear the taps may soon run dry, a moment known as 'day zero', prompting the declaration of a state of disaster. This is a stark reality for the 100,000 residents of Knysna, situated along South Africa's renowned Garden Route.
Knysna's water crisis is a result of infrastructure neglect and changing weather patterns. Official estimates reveal a staggering 55% of the town's drinkable water is lost due to leaking pipes. The situation is exacerbated by a drought, causing a sharp decline in water levels at the main storage dam, Akkerkloof. During a recent visit, the dam had only 20 days' worth of reserves.
The town's retirement haven status for affluent South Africans adds a layer of complexity. A local retirement center experienced a mini 'day zero' last October when a municipal plant fault left residents without water for 10 days. This prompted owner Franco de Grandis to invest in a backup water supply, spending 250,000 South African rand on three 10,000-liter tanks and specialized pumps to ensure water availability during outages.
Non-governmental organizations like Gift of the Givers are also providing assistance to those who cannot afford backup measures. They bring thousands of liters of water daily in tankers to the town, receiving gratitude from residents. However, the organization's coordinator, Mario Ferreira, warns that residents are starting to accept this as their new normal.
Water scarcity is a fundamental issue. Franco de Grandis emphasizes the frustration of the town's situation, stating that water is a basic right. The mayor, Thando Matika, acknowledges the problems but attributes them to predecessors' neglect, having inherited a municipality that hadn't maintained infrastructure for years.
The government has provided emergency funding to address the crisis, including fixing boreholes, a desalination plant, and drilling for an extra borehole. Longer-term solutions involve water recycling and building another dam. Water meters will be installed, and restrictions are in place, including reduced water pressure and bans on garden watering and pool filling.
Despite the crisis, tourism businesses remain optimistic. Elmay Bouwer, from the Great Knysna Business Council, suggests focusing on water conservation rather than scaring tourists. However, experts warn of South Africa's water security struggles, with Cape Town's near 'day zero' in 2018 serving as a cautionary tale. Dr. Ferial Adam predicts more towns will face water security issues, with half of South Africa's population lacking running water.
The story of Knysna highlights the country's ongoing challenges in providing basic services, even 32 years after the end of white-minority rule. Residents in Khayalethu township, a short drive from Knysna, endure irregular water supply, with 'day-zero anxiety' bringing attention to their daily struggles. Khanyiswa Sewula, a 60-year-old resident, illustrates the hardships, emphasizing the constant water shortages that affect her daily life.
