City of Windhoek not to let up on water restrictions despite watering their own lawns

The water restrictions for residents of Windhoek were seemingly relaxed when it transpired that the municipality has started to water its lawns, parks and recreational areas again.

But a spokesperson for the City this week told the Economist they are using semi-purified water to irrigate their own outdoors facilities and that the water restrictions remain in force and will be enforced actively.

City of Windhoek Public Relations officer, Lydia Amutenya confirmed that Windhoek is still under strict water restrictions and therefore the water usage rules remain the same. The lawns under care of the municipality that have been irrigated lately are all watered with semi-puried water. Where a facility is not connected to the semi-purified water distribution system, it may not be irrigated and is subject to the same restrictions that apply to all other residents, companies and industries.

To prevent over-extraction of semi-purified water, the City advised that it waters its own lawns only twice a week, and only before 10:00 in the morning. It is still an imperative that residents keep the water restrictions that are in place.

Amytenya stressed that the water crisis continues although it may not be as severe as last year. But the offered a ray of hope saying the City will soon make an announcement regarding future water usage. The restrictions are definitely not lifted, she said adding that the imminent statement will shed more light on the do’s and don’ts expected from residents.

Under the existing water restrictions, the watering of gardens is allowed only for trees, shrubs and perennials, and only once every second week. The watering of lawns, flowers and vegetables is strictly prohibited. Also the washing of cars at private residences or at taxi ranks is not allowed. Pool covers are mandatory while the filling of pools is not allowed.

On its own properties, the City will only water public spaces that are connected to the semi-purified water systems.

“The City counts on the unwavering support of all the residents to cooperate and assist in this regard and it is important to note that fines will be strictly applied to any transgressions of the above” she said.