Water and Sanitation Minister, Senzo Mchunu, is enthusiastic about the progress made so far in the Sedibeng Sewer Scheme Project and Vaal River System Interventions. This progress is due to the Emfuleni Section 63 intervention projects. On August 29, 2023, Mchunu conducted an oversight visit in the Vaal region to assess the upgrades and refurbishments of critical bulk pipelines and pump stations in the regional networks.
The Upgrades Aim to End Pollution of the Vaal River
The upgrades aim to ensure optimal wastewater system functioning, ultimately putting an end to the pollution of the Vaal River and its tributaries. Mchunu appointed Rand Water as the implementing agent to manage the project.
A Visit to the Sedibeng Region
During the visit, Mchunu visited eight construction sites in the Sedibeng region, including Sebokeng, Leeuwkuil, and Rietspruit wastewater treatment plants. These sites are undergoing mechanical and electrical repairs. Mchunu expressed satisfaction with the progress, despite vandalism of infrastructure posing challenges at many facilities.
Inspection of the Rothdene Pump Station and Ongoing Rehabilitation of Pipelines
Accompanied by a delegation that included Emfuleni Local Municipality Executive Mayor Cllr Sipho Radebe, Rand Water Chairperson Ramateu Monyokolo, and CEO Sipho Mosai, Mchunu visited the Rothdene Pump Station, which transfers wastewater to Meyerton Wastewater Treatment Work.
Mchunu also inspected ongoing rehabilitation of pipelines in the area, such as VE10, Tshepiso South, Vereeniging, VB16, Bophelong, and EV18, Lakeside, and Evaton.
Positive Effects on Residents’ Lives
Rand Water has made significant progress in addressing sewer spillages and water pollution, as evident in their comprehensive report presented two weeks earlier. Mchunu confirmed that there has been a marked difference in the region since the intervention began. This progress positively affects residents’ lives, socially and economically.
Mrs. Nomali Mhlambi’s Home in Vereeniging
Alongside these inspections, Mchunu visited Mrs. Nomali Mhlambi’s home in Vereeniging, which had been affected by sewage spillage for years before the Section 63 intervention resolved the issue. Mrs. Mhlambi expressed gratitude to the Department of Water and Sanitation (DWS) and Rand Water for their assistance.
The Importance of the Section 63 Intervention
According to Mchunu, the Emfuleni Section 63 intervention was necessary after the municipalities failed to manage their water and sanitation services. This failure led to sewer spillages in communities and pollution of the Vaal River. With these ongoing efforts and the dedication of the DWS and Rand Water, the Emfuleni Section 63 intervention projects continue to bring about tangible improvements to the lives of local residents and the environment.
A Brighter Future for Emfuleni Local Municipality
The collaboration between government officials, implementing agents, and local communities promises a brighter future for the Emfuleni Local Municipality and its people. With this successful implementation, the Emfuleni Section 63 intervention projects continue to provide positive results in the region.
