STORY: Critically low levels at main reservoir threaten water supply of Namibian capital
SHOOTING TIME: May 8, 2024
DATELINE: May 11, 2024
LENGTH: 00:01:27
LOCATION: Windhoek
CATEGORY: ENVIRONMENT

SHOTLIST:
1. various of the Von Bach Dam
2. SOUNDBITE (English): ESLEY KANDOROZU, NamWater Hydrology Division acting manager
3. various of the Von Bach Pump station

STORYLINE:

Authorities warn that water levels are critically low at the reservoir at Von Bach Dam, the third-largest in Namibia and a vital water source for the capital city of Windhoek.

The reservoir is now at only 11.3 percent capacity, jeopardizing water supply to the capital city and Okahandja, a town about 70 km north of Windhoek.
   
A group of reporters were taken to Von Bach Treatment Plant, near Okahandja, to see the dire water supply situation.
   
The reservoir at Von Bach Dam typically supplies about half of Windhoek's water needs, but its dwindling reserves are causing concern among officials.
   
NamWater Hydrology Division acting manager Esley Kandorozu, who briefed the media, called for urgent measures to address the situation.

SOUNDBITE (English): ESLEY KANDOROZU, NamWater Hydrology Division acting manager
"With the demand that we have in the central area of Namibia and the amount of water that we have in our dams, if we don't implement water demand management, our dam, Von Bach will run dry in February 2025. That should be a concern."
   
Von Bach Dam reservoir, along with reservoirs at Swakoppoort Dam and Omatako Dam, forms a crucial part of Windhoek's water supply infrastructure.
   
Dwindling water levels underscore the urgent need for sustainable water management practices amid the challenges of climate change and growing demand.

Xinhua News Agency correspondents reporting from Windhoek.
(XHTV)