South Africa faces a profound water crisis, with 50% of its potable water categorized as Non-Revenue and over 3 million citizens lacking basic access to water. The situation is aggravated by climate factors, significant water wastage, and health impacts related to insufficient sanitation. Urgent reforms in water management are essential to address these pressing challenges.
Water is an essential resource, and the South African Department of Water and Sanitation has highlighted its significance by stating, “water is life.” It is essential to comprehend both local and global water issues, particularly as World Water Day approaches.
In South Africa, 50% of the potable water produced is classified as Non-Revenue, indicating that it is lost within the system due to inefficiencies and leaks. Furthermore, over 3 million South Africans lack access to basic water supply services, with 52% of residents in informal settlements around Johannesburg resorting to digging their own pit latrines.
Globally, the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) reports that 443 million school days are forfeited each year due to illnesses associated with lack of access to clean water or poor water sources. Alarmingly, the South African Human Rights Commission states that 115 individuals in Africa die every hour from diseases connected to inadequate sanitation, poor hygiene, and contaminated water sources.
In terms of climate, South Africa receives 40% less rainfall than the global average, which exacerbates the water crisis. While the global average water usage is 173 liters per person per day, South Africa’s average stands at 237 liters, despite being recognized as a water-scarce nation.
According to the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR), 61% of South Africa’s water is allocated to agricultural purposes, 27% for household consumption, and 7% for industrial use. Furthermore, the latest Blue Drop Report indicates that out of South Africa’s 144 Water Services Authorities (WSAs), 24 have not attempted compliance with regulatory standards, and 40 are facing critical situations.
The Water Services Act mandates a minimum standard of 25 liters of water per person per day. Notably, during the stringent water restrictions experienced during Cape Town’s “Day Zero,” the average consumption only reached 50 liters per person per day.
In conclusion, the water crisis in South Africa is characterized by significant inefficiencies, lack of access, and widespread implications for health and sanitation. With a considerable portion of water lost to system inefficiencies, and millions without basic water access, it is critical for authorities to address these challenges effectively. The alarming statistics regarding water use and health-related issues underscore the urgency for sustainable water management and infrastructure enhancements in the country.
Original Source: infrastructurenews.co.za
