The Department of Water and Sanitation (DWS) has proposed water resource infrastructure tariff increases of between 0% and 16.5% for industrial and domestic raw-water users.

Engaging various stakeholders late last month, the department set out to determine the appropriate increase for water tariffs for the 2020/21 financial year.

“This consultation is important, as it brings the department and its customers closer, and decisions taken are broadly well received,” the department says, noting that important issues raised by stakeholders will be considered prior to the finalisation, approval and implementation of the proposed water use charges.

“Water consultation affects various departments and role-players. It is crucial, therefore, that the tariffs be discussed because they also reflect the challenges that the DWS faces and the importance of tariff regulation,” explains DWS deputy director-general for water sector regulation Anil Singh.

South Africa invests R42-billion a year into water infrastructure and R13-billion for sanitation, says chief water resource planner Tendani Nditwani, emphasising the need for properly managed water and sanitation services, while ensuring financial sustainability.

This can be achieved through accurate billing and effective revenue management systems in all entities, including for agricultural, industrial, commercial and domestic users.

DWS acting deputy director-general for infrastructure development Leonardo Manus highlights the department’s work behind the scenes to ensure that water supply is not disrupted.

“Water sources and water volumes remain unchanged, and this is exacerbated by low rainfall across the country.”

Water quality will also be a determining factor in setting water tariffs.

Highlighting water pollution and compromised service delivery around water and sanitation, DWS acting chief director for water quality regulation Marius Keet laments a declining water quality as a result of urbanisation and economic development.

“Of the 186 monitored rivers, ecological health varies from good to very poor. It is important that there is a good water quality for users. We cannot increase water prices while water quality deteriorates,” he concludes.