The Garden Route Dam, increased from 46,09% to nearly 89% in just two weeks.
This follows heavy rainfall in the catchment areas.
The Haarlem Dam is at 100% full.
As a result, George Municipality announced the lifting of emergency water tariffs and the easing of water restrictions from Level 2D to Level 2B.
The town’s Council made the decision at a Special Council Meeting held on Friday.
Browen Johnson, Mayor of George, said “the recent rainfall has brought much-needed relief to our municipality and residents after an extremely challenging drought period. Council’s decision to ease restrictions and lift emergency tariffs provides financial relief to households and businesses, while acknowledging the tremendous efforts made by our community to reduce water consumption, over the past several months.”
He also cautioned residents that the Region is water-scarce, and therefore, requires responsible water usage.
Donovan Gultig, MMC for Civil Engineering Services, said the municipality would continue to apply a cautious and responsible approach to long-term water security.
According to the amended Level 2B water restrictions, mechanical or automatic irrigation devices and sprinkler systems for gardens remain prohibited, this includes the washing of vehicles using a hosepipe, cleaning of outdoor surfaces, and filling up pools.
Gardens may only be watered using a handheld hose between prescribed times and on allocated days.