The Department of Water and Sanitation has called on residents in KwaZulu-Natal to continue using water sparingly ahead of the winter season. This is as the overall water storage capacity in the province has marginally decreased from last week’s 91.9% to 91.7%.
The minimal decrease is as a result of changing seasons with lesser rainfall. The department, along with its entity in KwaZulu-Natal, Umgeni-uThukela Water, is working collaboratively to roll out bulk water infrastructure projects in different parts of the province, especially in water-stressed communities.
Midmar Dam on the Mgeni River is at 97.1% from 98.2%. Nagle, Albert Falls and Inanda dams, also located on the Mgeni River, recorded 90.0%, 99.7% and 101.2% respectively.
Dam levels decrease due to less rainfall
Meanwhile, Woodstock, Zaaihoek and Ntshingwayo dams are unchanged at last week’s 101.0%, 90.6% and 77.6%. Klipfontein Dam has slightly decreased from 98.2% recorded in the previous week to 97.2%. Bivane Dam is 100.6% full capacity from 101.2% and Hazelmere dam located on the Mdloti River is at 83.7% from last week’s 83.6%.
The department assured residents that strides are being made to ensure sustainable and reliable water provision. This through effective implementation of bulk water infrastructure such as the Maphumulo Bulk Water Supply Scheme. It is set for completion by January 2025 and will benefit residents within the Ilembe District Municipality.
The project, which is implemented in phases, entails the upgrade of the existing 6 megalitres per day (Mℓ/d) water treatment plant capacity to 12 megalitres per day (Mℓ/d). The Bulk Supply Scheme, once all phases are complete, will service various areas. These are Maphumulo, Masibambisane, KwaSizebantu, Ngcebo, Maqumbi, and Ashville. The areas will also include Emtanjeni, Nyamazane, Balcom, and Sindi in the future.
More projects to boost water resources
Other projects include the KwaXimba Package Plant and associated infrastructure Project. It is primarily aimed at addressing water challenges within the eThekwini Metro and surrounding areas. This project is also being implemented in phases and will see the supply of potable water to the Mvini area (Phase 1). Also the supply of potable water to the Nonoti and Bhobhonono areas (Phase 2).
Residents are further urged to refrain from vandalising water infrastructure. They are urged to report such acts of criminality to law enforcement agencies in their areas.
