This article explores the water crisis in South Africa, highlighting that 50% of potable water is lost due to inefficiencies, over 3 million citizens lack access to basic water, and substantial health crises are linked to water access issues. Notably, the country experiences 40% less rainfall than average, with most water allocated to agriculture, raising concerns about management and sustainability.
Water is an essential resource, often referred to by the South African Department of Water and Sanitation as “life.” As World Water Day approaches, understanding the severity of the water crisis both globally and in South Africa becomes crucial. Here are eye-opening facts highlighting the current water situation in South Africa.
Approximately 50% of South Africa’s potable water is categorized as Non-Revenue water. This indicates that half of the water produced is lost through system inefficiencies and leaks, underscoring the importance of infrastructure improvements.
Over 3 million South Africans lack access to basic water supplies, which poses significant health risks and quality of life issues. Notably, 52% of individuals in Johannesburg’s informal settlements have resorted to constructing their own pit latrines, reflecting inadequate sanitation facilities.
Significantly, the United Nations Development Programme reports that globally, around 443 million school days are missed annually due to illnesses stemming from inadequate water access or poor quality sources. This indicates a direct impact on education and health linked to water scarcity.
Moreover, the South African Human Rights Commission notes that 115 people in Africa die every hour from diseases associated with poor sanitation, hygiene, and water contamination.
South Africa receives 40% less rainfall than the global average, exacerbating its water scarcity challenges. Despite this, the average South African uses about 237 liters of water per person per day, which is higher than the global average of 173 liters.
Water usage in South Africa is heavily skewed, with 61% of the water allocated to the agricultural sector, 27% to households, and only 7% to industry, according to the CSIR statistics.
The latest Blue Drop Report reveals concerning compliance issues among South Africa’s 144 Water Services Authorities (WSAs), with 24 failing to make any efforts towards Blue Drop compliance and 40 in a critical state.
The Water Services Act defines a minimum standard of 25 liters per person per day for basic water supply. However, during Cape Town’s severe ‘Day Zero’ crisis, the average consumption was approximately 50 liters per person daily, illustrating the dire circumstances during extreme shortages.
The water crisis in South Africa is multifaceted, encompassing issues of accessibility, sanitation, and infrastructure inefficiency. Alarmingly high levels of Non-Revenue water, coupled with millions lacking basic supplies, highlight the urgency of improvements needed. With the agricultural sector consuming the majority of water resources and significant compliance failures among water authorities, addressing these challenges is critical for the country’s future health and sustainability.
Original Source: infrastructurenews.co.za
