MEDIA RESPONSE: LEVEL 2 WATER RESTRICTIONS

Response: Langeberg Municipality – Level 2 Water Restrictions

The Langeberg Municipality notes the statement issued by the FF Plus regarding the implementation of Level 2 water restrictions from 1 February 2026. While we welcome constructive engagement, it is important to clarify the facts and correct several inaccuracies.

1.      Why Level 2 Restrictions are necessary

-              Low rainfall and reduced dam levels: The region has experienced below-average rainfall over the past two seasons, leaving storage dams at critically low levels. This directly affects both raw water availability and long-term security.  

-              Breede River dependency: Breede River remains a key source. Maximum pumping is done according to our allocation. The current canal pumpstation has been upgraded recently to ensure sustainable water provision. An application for the increase of allocation from the Breede River is currently in process. An additional pumpstation is required and is currently in the planning phase for pumping additional water to the canal pumpstation.

-              Balancing human consumption and agriculture: Restrictions are designed to ensure an equitable distribution of water between households, businesses, and farms, while safeguarding drinking water as the top priority. During harvesting period it is critical that sufficient water is provided to the relevant sectors.

-              The pumpstation at the Gumgrove dam is scheduled for upgrade in the next month and is seen as a priority to ensure sufficient water is supplied to the WTW. 

2.      Infrastructure Challenges

-              The municipality acknowledges that infrastructure maintenance and upgrades are ongoing challenges. Pumps and pipelines require continual investment, and emergency repairs are done as and when required.  

-              However, infrastructure limitations are not the reason for restrictions. Even with sufficient infrastructure including functioning pumps, reduced raw water inflow means the system cannot sustainably meet unrestricted and continuous increasing demand.  

-              Level 2 restrictions are a preventative measure to avoid escalation to Level 3 or emergency rationing later in the year.

3.      Misconceptions about “Enough Water”

-              The temporary reinstatement of leiwater rotations was a short-term measure to relieve agricultural pressure and reduce the use of potable water for watering gardens, not proof of surplus water.  

-              Water allocated to leiwater is strictly regulated and cannot replace potable supply. Suggesting that household restrictions are unnecessary because leiwater resumed is incorrect and misleading.  

-              Restrictions apply across all towns to ensure fairness and consistency, preventing localised overuse that could destabilise the broader system. Each town also has unique challenges regarding water supply, and consequent water restriction.

4.      Protecting the economy and community

-              Far from being “counterproductive,” restrictions are designed to protect the local economy by ensuring that wineries, farms, and businesses continue to receive a baseline supply rather than face sudden cut-offs.  

-              The municipality is actively pursuing upgrades, including pump repairs, borehole development, and dam maintenance, but these are medium-term solutions. Restrictions are the immediate safeguard.

5.      Commitment to transparency and action

-              The municipality has not ignored engineering recommendations; rather, projects are being phased in line with budget cycles and procurement regulations.  

-              Emergency repairs initiated in November 2025 are ongoing, and contractors are being engaged to complete outstanding work.  

-              Residents will continue to receive regular updates, and all proposals from stakeholders, including the FF Plus, are considered within the broader water management strategy.

 Conclusion

Level 2 water restrictions are not a punishment but a responsible and necessary step to secure water for all residents during a period of reduced availability. The municipality remains committed to infrastructure upgrades, transparent communication, and collaboration with all stakeholders to ensure long-term water security.

 Kindest regards

 D P LUBBE
MUNICIPAL MANAGER