The KwaZulu Natal North Coast is experiencing water shortages resulting from a drought over the past few months.
The Head of eThekwini Water and Sanitation Unit, Ednick Msweli, said the area was at level-three warnings, which means water consumption needs to be reduced by 30%. “We are now very close to level four, whereby we would be forced to implement water restrictions. If the current consumption trend continues the dam could be empty by April.”
The hospitality industry, however, seems well prepared to deal with the crisis. Joanne Du Plooy, Marketing and Communications Manager for the Fairmont Zimbali Resort, told Tourism Update the resort had undertaken numerous measures to reduce water consumption without sacrificing the guest experience. “This includes the installation of water-saving showerheads and reducing the frequency of non-essential cleaning that requires large amounts of water. We do have contingency plans in place to ensure that our guests enjoy their holiday while staying with us.”
Du Plooy doesn’t foresee any major challenges for the upcoming holiday season. “The Fairmont Zimbali Resort is equipped with ancillary water tanks that supply the hotel with water should there be a municipal water shutdown. We are also putting contingency measures in place at the Fairmont Zimbali Lodge.”
Even the smaller establishments are optimistic about the upcoming holiday season. Barbara Shingler, Ballito Estates, says she doesn’t foresee travellers being heavily affected. “Tourists will be here to relax and party, and the sea will always have enough water. And, if they have to put a little less water in their whisky – they may even enjoy that.”
