Cape Town told to cut water use or face losing supply by 12 April
Residents of Cape Town have been warned that they face losing piped water to their homes within two months if they do not implement drastic measures to counter the effects of the worst drought for almost century to hit South Africa’s second city.
Local authorities have warned the 500,000 residents that if consumption reductions are not achieved by “Day Zero” – 12 April – they will have to queue at 200 standpipes for daily rations of 25 litres (6.6 US gallons).
The city, which attracts millions of tourists every year, has enforced strict waste controls including prosecution of homeowners who use more than the 50-litre daily limit.
However, the measures have not been sufficient, forcing local officials to bring forward “Day Zero” by nine days.
Nic Bothma/EPA