Knysna Faces Mounting Challenges in Water Management and Sewage Systems as the Town Braces for Peak Tourism Season

Published on November 28, 2025

Knysna, a scenic coastal town famed for its natural landscapes and thriving tourism sector, is confronting a mounting infrastructure crisis that threatens the well-being of its residents and the stability of its economy. With the summer season approaching, the town is grappling with unreliable water supply, broken sewage systems, failing pump stations, inconsistent waste collection, and intensifying environmental pressures. These challenges are creating a precarious situation as Knysna prepares to welcome a surge of domestic and international visitors.

Water scarcity has emerged as one of the most urgent concerns. Recent reports indicate that over 50% of Knysna’s water is lost annually due to leaks, faulty infrastructure, and tampered prepaid meters, resulting in financial losses exceeding R11 million each year. Broken meters, inadequate monitoring systems, and inefficient billing processes have compounded the problem, leaving the municipality struggling to manage a resource that is vital for households, businesses, and tourism. As demand peaks during the busy summer months, insufficient water supply could disrupt daily life and undermine the town’s reputation as a reliable destination.

The town’s sanitation systems are also under severe strain. Malfunctioning pump stations, recurring sewage overflows, and irregular waste collection have heightened environmental risks. The Knysna Estuary, an essential ecological and economic asset, continues to face contamination threats, which could damage marine biodiversity and threaten the livelihoods of those dependent on tourism and local fisheries. These challenges highlight the urgent need for comprehensive infrastructure maintenance and robust environmental management.

Recent inspections by national oversight authorities have confirmed the deteriorating state of Knysna’s water and sanitation infrastructure. Findings emphasize the need for immediate repairs, better resource management, and long-term planning to prevent further deterioration. The crisis is systemic, reflecting years of underinvestment and operational inefficiencies, and requires coordinated action from all levels of government and municipal authorities.

The approaching tourist season has intensified concerns about the town’s ability to provide essential services. Hotels, restaurants, and recreational operators rely on consistent water supply and functioning sanitation systems to deliver high-quality experiences to visitors. Any disruption could result in reputational damage and reduced tourism revenue, with lasting effects on local businesses and employment.

Administrative challenges have complicated efforts to address the crisis. Attempts to restructure governance and intervene in municipal operations were blocked, leaving uncertainty about when and how critical repairs will be implemented. These obstacles have increased pressure on authorities to act swiftly and decisively to restore essential services and safeguard the town’s economic future.

Efforts to stabilize Knysna’s infrastructure include repairing water pipelines, replacing faulty meters, enhancing revenue tracking systems, improving waste collection, and protecting environmental assets. Ensuring a reliable water supply and functional sanitation system is critical not only for public health and safety but also for sustaining tourism, which is a cornerstone of the town’s economy.

The crisis also underscores the broader implications of inadequate municipal management. Water and sanitation failures elevate public health risks, threaten local ecosystems, and can diminish visitor confidence. Addressing these issues requires a dual approach: immediate remediation to restore services and strategic planning to prevent recurring problems and ensure long-term sustainability.

As the summer season draws near, residents and businesses are closely monitoring the situation, hoping that decisive interventions will be implemented in time. Prompt action is essential to mitigate the risk of service disruptions and to preserve Knysna’s natural appeal and economic viability. The current crisis presents an opportunity to modernize infrastructure, strengthen governance, and implement measures that promote resilience and environmental sustainability.

Looking ahead, comprehensive solutions are necessary to safeguard Knysna’s future. Investments in water management, waste handling, and environmental protection, along with modernized tracking and monitoring systems, are critical for maintaining public health, supporting local livelihoods, and sustaining tourism growth. With coordinated efforts and sufficient resources, Knysna can overcome the current challenges, ensuring a smooth, prosperous summer season while protecting its unique coastal environment.

The next few months are pivotal for the town. Restoring reliable water supply, improving sanitation, and safeguarding natural resources will determine whether Knysna can maintain its economic and social vitality. With timely intervention, effective planning, and dedicated investment, the town can emerge stronger from this crisis, preserving its reputation as a world-class destination and a vibrant, livable community.