RIVERTON – The Sol Plaatje Municipality has recently released a comprehensive recovery plan to tackle the ongoing water crisis that has been affecting the residents of Kimberley. The plan, outlined in a document titled “Sol Plaatje Water Supply Recovery Plan”, aims to address the underlying problems the municipality faces and implement solutions to enable a consistent water supply for the community.
According to the document, one of the main issues affecting the water supply is the inadequate production of water from the Riverton Water Treatment Works (WTW) due to various factors. These include clarifiers filled with sludge that affect the filtration process, filter media that is no longer effective in filtering enough water and malfunctioning mechanical components.
The bulk lines responsible for pumping water from the Riverton WTW to the Newton Reservoirs also have water leaks, which were identified during a previous shutdown but were not promptly fixed. These leaks have resulted in reduced water pressure within the bulk line, negatively impacting the amount of water pumped to the Newton Reservoir.
Furthermore, the team discovered numerous water leaks within the Newton Reservoir, particularly along the inlet and outlet pipes. These leaks have contributed to a significant amount of water loss.
To rectify these issues, the recovery plan offers several solutions. The team has managed to replace the filter media in some filters and modify the siphons to allow for more water filtration. Additionally, efforts are being made to procure additional filter media for further replacements. The team has also been working to de-sludge the clarifiers and will continue this process to reduce suspended sludge and improve water treatment.
Addressing the bulk water distribution concerns, the operation team has identified and will fix major leaks on the 900mm diameter pipe and numerous leaks at the Newton Reservoirs. These actions aim to restore the water pressure and minimize further water loss.
Although the SPM claims improvements through their efforts, Kimberley residents continue to experience water interruptions during the night to maintain dam levels at Newton Reservoir. The Sol Plaatje Municipality is commended for its improved communication with residents but is urged to address tough questions rather than deflecting or spinning the situation. The Kimberley Prospector, a local news outlet, plans to engage with the municipality for further insights.
We need you, Prospector
In order to support community journalism and keep challenging the local government, The Kimberley Prospector appeals to readers to become subscribers and “Prospectors”. They emphasize three ways to assist: becoming a Prospector, supporting our advertisers, or by becoming an advertiser themselves. The newspaper stresses the importance of community support in addressing these critical issues.
Political parties are also urged to support community journalism by signing up for the “Promote Your Party”-initiative.