Drakenstein Municipality recently cautioned residents to use water responsibly after noting a decline in dam levels.
As of 1 December 2025, the Berg River, Wemmershoek Dam, and Voelvlei Dam were at 82.4 percent compared to 93.1 percent at the same time last year. Although this is not an immediate crisis, GOOD believes it clearly indicates a growing risk that requires urgent and coordinated action.
Over the past 12 to 18 months, Drakenstein has seen a rapid increase in commercial, retail, and residential developments. As the population grows and new developments continue to appear, water and resource consumption will rise accordingly. This places additional pressure on a water supply system that is not expanding at the same pace. The result is a vulnerable position for medium and long-term planning, with potential consequences for existing residents and commercial users who depend on stable access to limited resources.
Long-term climate projections show that the Western Cape will face more severe periods of low rainfall and drought. Forecasts indicate a 20-25 percent reduction in rainfall, placing the province at significantly higher risk than many other parts of South Africa. Drakenstein will not escape the effects of these changes. Reduced rainfall will have environmental, agricultural, and economic impacts that require pre-emptive preparation.
Proactive planning is needed to prevent future disruptions in the water supply. GOOD therefore calls on Drakenstein Municipality to urgently implement measures that protect residents from medium and long-term water shortages. This is especially important given the pace at which new residential and commercial developments are emerging. While population and economic growth help diversify the local ratepayer base, such growth cannot continue without ensuring that existing water resources are safeguarded and that investment is directed towards expanding and strengthening water supply systems.
It is important for Drakenstein Municipality to use this moment to accelerate the implementation of its Water Services Development Master Plan. This should include initiatives such as drilling new boreholes, upgrading bulk water services, and increasing investment in water and wastewater infrastructure. At the same time, the Municipality must prioritise efforts to protect rivers and local ecosystems that support water users within the area.
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