Grahamstown’s water supply is in a critical state due to various factors: ageing infrastructure, operational issues, unreliable rainfall patterns and intermittent droughts. The high lying areas of Rhodes University campus are expected to have problems with water service delivery due to lack of water pressure. In the event of water cuts, please note that we have a number of back-up tanks on campus that are filled with drinking water. We are also in the process of installing rainwater tanks where possible, beginning with areas of highest priority. We appeal to staff and students to be part of the solution. Please use water responsibly and sparingly, and observe these water-saving practices - see PDF format
Water-saving practices
- Switch off taps: A running tap - while you clean teeth, rinse veggies, wash dishes, etc - wastes water. Switch off when not in use. NB: in the event of a water cut, please ensure taps are kept closed!
- Reduce toilet flush: Place one or more small plastic bottles filled with water in toilet cisterns, to reduce the amount of water flushed. If it is leaking, a drop of food colouring in the toilet cistern will show up in the bowl.
- Report / repair leaks: Report all leaks immediately (dripping taps and leaks waste 1000s of litres per month).
- Low-flow showers: Showers - not longer than 7 min - use less water and are more hygienic than a bath. Low-flower showerheads are to be installed throughout campus – we rely on your cooperation in this regard.
- Full laundry loads: Use washing machines only when you have a full load of dirty washing – share a load with a friend.
- Only essential water use: Watering and washing non-essential items like cars, pathways, etc, is not permitted. Municipal water restrictions apply.
- Re-use of grey water: Re-use of ‘grey water’ from basins and showers (to flush toilets, water gardens, etc) is common practice. Various options are being explored on campus – your input in this regard would be appreciated.
- Rainwater tanks: Filtered rainwater may be used for cooking and drinking. As many rainwater tanks as possible are to be installed on campus.
Reporting leaks:
- Rhodes University: (office hours) Building Maintenance 046-603.8421; (after hours) Campus Protection Unit 046-603. 8146 / 7
- Grahamstown: Makana Municipality: 046-603.6136 / 6063
- More info: http://www.ru.ac.za/environment/action/waterwise
Please feel free to contact us – staff in the Estates Division are more than willing to address Rhodes University staff and students on the water crisis. For further information, contact Ms Nikki Köhly (Safety, Health & Environmental Officer) or Ms Eleanor Anderton (Secretary) on 046-603.8125.
Thank you for your cooperation.
L M Reynolds
Director, Estates Division