On July 21, 2023, President Cyril Ramaphosa conducted an oversight visit to KwaZulu-Natal to review the progress of water projects aimed at improving bulk water provision and maintaining crucial water infrastructure in the province. The following projects were the main focus of the visit:
Upgrading of Potable Water Schemes
The Department of Water and Sanitation is leading an initiative to upgrade potable water schemes in KwaZulu-Natal. The first phase of the Vulindlela Bulk Water Supply Scheme is a crucial part of this initiative.
Enhancing Water Services
The upgrade of Phase 1 of the Vulindlela Bulk Water Supply Scheme will boost the availability and supply of drinking water to various communities within the uMgungundlovu District, including Msunduzi and the uMngeni Local Municipalities.
Innovative Reservoir Construction
One essential element of the Phase 1 upgrade is the construction of a new reservoir designed to increase drinking water storage capacity by an extra 20 mega liters per day, reaching a total of 35 mega liters per day.
New Pipelines and Pump Station
Other significant enhancements include the installation of new pipelines connecting different reservoirs and the construction of a cutting-edge pump station, which will augment both water supply and power supply.
Expanding the Darvill Wastewater Treatment Works
The Darvill Wastewater Treatment Works expansion will significantly increase the treatment capacity of the facility. This will enable further housing, business, and industrial development within Msunduzi, reduce pollution levels in the Msunduzi River, and improve the water quality reaching the Inanda Dam.
Innovative Technologies for Wastewater Reclamation
Recently, the Department of Water and Sanitation, in collaboration with a relevant operating entity, completed the upgrade of the treatment plant. This upgrade expanded the plant’s treatment capacity from 65 mega liters per day to 100 mega liters per day, encompassing domestic and industrial sewage from areas within the Msunduzi Local Municipality’s jurisdiction. The ambitious project incorporates innovative technologies for wastewater reclamation, meeting drinking water standards and electricity cogeneration. Currently, water treated to drinking standards is primarily utilized for cleaning and sanitation purposes at the wastewater treatment site.
Benefits to the Community
The upgrade of the Darvill treatment plant has created nearly 400 jobs and stimulated Pietermaritzburg and parts of the KwaZulu-Natal Midlands economically. The project is estimated to benefit around 700,000 people directly through proper and effective effluent treatment.
Oversight Inspections
President Cyril Ramaphosa, Minister of Water and Sanitation Mr. Senzo Mchunu, and KZN Premier Nomusa Dube-Ncube, along with several senior government officials in the province, conducted oversight inspections of these monumental projects. Following the inspections, the leaders provided a progress report to the community through a community engagement program.
Commitment to Improving Water Infrastructure
In conclusion, the visit to the Darvill Wastewater Treatment plant and the Vulindlela Bulk Water scheme showcased the government’s commitment to improving the water infrastructure in KwaZulu-Natal. These ambitious projects will serve as a stepping stone towards a more sustainable and prosperous future for the region’s residents, businesses, and industries.
