Cape Town, a bustling metropolis, is investing in major bulk sewer upgrades to secure its future. The city aims to enhance the Cape Flats, Philippi, Milnerton, and Gordon’s Bay lines with a total investment of R1.4 billion over the next three years. This remarkable undertaking highlights the city’s commitment to meeting the needs of its expanding population while prioritizing environmental preservation.
The heart of these ambitious plans is the R470 million Milnerton Bulk Sewer upgrade, set for completion by 2025. Cape Town Mayor Geordin Hill-Lewis recently marked the commencement of this project, which involves the construction of an entirely new pipeline using innovative micro-tunnelling technology. Additionally, the Edgemead and Century City Bulk Sewers will extend and connect this new infrastructure.
The Milnerton project also encompasses the installation of a sandtrap and screening facility at the Koeberg Road Pump station. This improvement aims to enhance the station’s performance and reduce breakdowns caused by foreign objects. Furthermore, a new 300-meter long bulk outfall sewer of 1,350mm diameter will be constructed to accommodate the combined flow of the existing and new Montague Gardens Bulk Sewers.
Incorporating advanced technology is a pillar of the project. This includes using trenchless technology for pipe rehabilitation, with robotic crawlers profiling pipes to determine the best method of repair. This approach minimizes disruption to residents and traffic, as all work will take place underground.
The major infrastructure project is not only about addressing the city’s growing needs but also about safeguarding the environment. The Koeberg Road Pump Station upgrade will help reduce sewer spills into the Diep River, easing the pressure on the nearby ecosystem. Mayor Hill-Lewis emphasized the importance of such projects in building a city of hope for all, contributing to better living conditions for residents.
The Milnerton Bulk Sewer upgrade is just one example of the city’s commitment to upgrading its infrastructure. Cape Town has increased its Water and Sanitation infrastructure budget by 223% over three years, from R2.3 billion in 2022/23 to R7.8 billion in 2025/26. This investment pipeline, worth R43 billion, is expected to create an estimated 135,000 jobs in the city over three years.
Other major infrastructure projects in the area include the R5.2 billion upgrade to double the capacity at Potsdam Wastewater Works and the R118 million Koeberg Pump Station Upgrade. Across the metro, the city has exceeded its target of doubling sewer pipe replacement from 25km to 50km for the 2022/23 financial year, achieving 55km of replaced pipeline.
Cape Town plans to double its annual pipe replacement target yet again, reaching 100km per year from 2023/24, translating to a total investment of R850 million over the next three years. This strategy, combined with proactive cleaning of sewer lines and the deployment of digital telemetry systems for early warnings on sewer spills, has resulted in a 30% downward trend in reported spills over the last two years.
The city’s infrastructure upgrade projects demonstrate Cape Town’s dedication to progress, innovation, and environmental responsibility. By embracing cutting-edge technology and investing in its future, Cape Town is taking essential steps towards ensuring a sustainable, thriving municipality for generations to come.
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