KIMBERLEY – The Sol Plaatje Local Municipality (SPLM) has successfully obtained approval for funding exceeding R2 billion from the National Treasury and the Department of Water Affairs. The funding will be allocated over the next five years to execute the Sol Plaatje Bulk Infrastructure Refurbishment Programme (SPBIRP), aimed at addressing the persistent water interruptions that the municipality has faced for many years.
The two-day Water Workshop, held at Kimberley’s Horseshoe Inn Conference Centre, brought together experts in water infrastructure and supply, business representatives, councillors, and officials. The workshop featured frank and robust discussions, highlighting the urgent need for a comprehensive solution to the municipality’s water challenges.
SPLM’s Water Infrastructure Challenges
Over the years, Sol Plaatje Local Municipality has grappled with unprecedented water interruptions, primarily due to an inadequate municipal budget for maintaining, repairing, or refurbishing its ageing water infrastructure. The municipality has actively sought additional funding to address the urgent need for water infrastructure upgrades, aiming to improve infrastructure reliability, reduce water leaks, and enhance water quality.
Approval of Long-Term Funding
In a significant development, SPLM received notification from the National Treasury in January 2023, confirming the approval of their application for funding through the Budget Facility for Infrastructure (BFI). This approval signals the availability of substantial funding to execute the SPBIRP, offering a glimmer of hope to consumers who have endured prolonged water disruptions.
Scope of the Sol Plaatje Bulk Infrastructure Refurbishment Programme
The SPBIRP will encompass various projects to enhance SPLM’s water security, including refurbishments at the Riverton Water Treatment Works, upgrades to pump stations, repairs and replacements of bulk pipelines, and improvements to the Newton Reservoir. Additionally, the Kimberley water network will undergo various projects related to network zoning, water leak detection, pipe replacement, and meter replacement.
Impact on Consumers
While the SPBIRP promises long-term improvements in water service delivery, consumers are advised to brace for short-term planned water supply interruptions during the repair and refurbishment process. The municipality assures that these interruptions will be well planned, with efforts made to minimize their duration and frequency.
This article was written by Jurno.