By: Erik van Dijk<\/p>\n
Here\u2019s what you need to know about reporting those who aren’t adhering to the water restrictions currently in place.<\/p>
When residents are reported for breaking the rules regarding water usage, and there is sufficient proof they are guilty, they will be fined only on the third transgression.<\/p>\n
Clr Tiisetso Nketle, member of the mayoral committee (MMC) for water and sanitation, said people can now report fellow residents via a dedicated email address and SMS line.<\/p>
Photos or short videos must be submitted with the report, as evidence, plus the date, time and address of the transgression.<\/p>\n
Themba Gadebe, metro spokesman, said: \u201cThe photo\/video should show the transgression (watering in daytime, sprinklers, etc.) with the house in the background, in order for the metro to be able to link the transgression with the property.<\/p>\n
\u201cComplaints with no evidence, date, time or addresses will not be valid for by-law enforcement.\u201d<\/p>\n
Nketle said a warning will be issued to transgressors on receipt of the first report with substantial evidence.<\/p>\n
\u201cFor the second transgression, the resident will be expected to pay for the inspection,\u201d she added.<\/p>\n
\u201cFines will be issued only upon the third proven transgression on a specific property.\u201d<\/p>\n
According to the metro\u2019s 2016\/17 Tariff Schedule for Water, the following penalties will be applied to transgressors of the water restrictions, pertaining to outdoor usage:<\/p>\n
\u2022Households: a fee of R6 753.64 per incident on the property.<\/p>\n
\u2022Business and other users: a fee of R13 762.24 per incident on the property.<\/p>\n
The metro is still working towards the creation of a dedicated hotline for water leaks and to report transgressors.<\/p>\n
For the time being, residents can contact the municipal call centre on 086 054 3000, where staff have been dedicated to handle reports of rule breakers and water leaks, between 8am and 4.30pm.<\/p>\n
Residents can also report transgressors via email, at savewater@ekurhuleni.gov.za, or by SMSing to 30788.<\/p>\n
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