OUDTSHOORN NEWS - The following open letter is a shortened version of an open letter sent to the municipality and mayor by a group of concerned residents:

We, the residents of Oudtshoorn, request that Oudtshoorn Municipality abides by its own water restrictions and stops watering the islands and other areas between 10 am and 6 pm. 

In addition, we request the municipality fixes the spray system so that it does not water the hard surfaces of the road which is also in contravention of the water restrictions. 

In light of the drought conditions in the Western Cape, we request that the municipality replace all grass with stones and succulents or other water-wise plants suitable to the climate.

We request that the municipality institute water restrictions appropriate to the drought instead of useless restrictions that do not restrict the use of water in any meaningful way and do not contribute to the actual saving of water. 

And that the restrictions are effectively conveyed to all the residents of Oudtshoorn by whatever means necessary. 

Unlike the current 'restrictions' which have had the least amount of effort applied to informing people as possible.

We request that the municipality lead the way in saving water by setting a good example. 

We request that the municipality attends to all leaks with urgency to save water.

We call on the municipality to show good leadership and governance in ensuring that all events held in Oudtshoorn are as water-wise as possible and implement water conservation practices such as waterless toilets, sealed grey water ice packs, restricted use of misters, and for all participants to be aware of the need to conserve water.

Last but not least we oppose the implementation of the so-called 'drought tariffs' as illegal and punitive, especially in light of the wasteful habits of the municipality themselves, who have ignored repeated requests from many residents to stop watering the islands and other areas, to attend to leaks and other assorted water-related issues.

The letter was forwarded to the municipality for comment.

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