Knysna Municipality has urged residents not to return to evacuated areas until these have been evaluated and declared safe.
In an update on Saturday afternoon, the Municipality also said that the dam level is currently at 31%.
“Residents are asked to continue to conserve water and to stay within the daily usage quota of 400 litres per household,” said spokesperson Fran Kirsten.
She said the supply to the CBD is being built up at the reservoir while work is being done to restore resources levels in Concordia North, Pezula, Eastford, Simola, Edameni, Brenton-On-Sea, White Location / Robololo and Knysna Heights.
“The areas of Rykmanshoogte and Fraaisig as well as Belvidere and Brenton may experience temporary cut-offs of their water supply while repairs are being done to burst pipes.”
Kirsten said that the Western Head and Eastford Pump stations are high priority as these will have a positive impact on water security.
“Overhead lines were damaged in the areas of Lower Welbedacht, Dam se Bos and various localised areas. Eskom is assisting in repairing damages,” she said.
Kirsten said water has been supplied to the Brenton, Belvidere and Northern Areas. Food and water has been sent to Buffalo Bay.
“We continue to appeal to people able to donate that we require sealed 5 litre bottles of water, mattresses, sleeping bags and small home appliances (kettles, can openers etc). These can be delivered to the following drop-off points: The Old Municipality Building Basement at the bottom of Spring Street, 2nd Floor parking level above Checkers,” she said.
“Gift of the Givers has supported 17 centres where displaced residents are taking refuge. The will continue to coordinate delivery of donations and medical supplies throughout Greater Knysna.”
People requiring medical attention should go to the “temporary medical point in Loerie Park. Community members must continue to liaise with the SAPS in terms of emergency services that may be required.’
Kirsten said that only the following evacuated areas and buildings have been declared safe to return to: Green Pastures, Epilepsy Centre, Knysna Prison, Provincial Hospital Hostel,
Hospital Hill (Nissan), Leeuwenbosch, Rheenendal, Belvedere, Belvedere Heights. Rhobololo,
Fisherhaven, Pezula Hotel, The Heads and Hunter’s Home.
