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Communities in the south of Durban will soon enjoy a stable, reliable water supply as the Lower Umkhomazi Bulk Water Supply Project is progressing well.
eThekwini Mayor Councillor Cyril Xaba conducted an oversight visit to the 11-billion-rand project, which is being constructed by uMngeni-uThukela Water. The Mayor was accompanied by the Chairperson of the uMngeni-uThukela Water Board, Advocate Vusi Khuzwayo, Trading Services Committee Chairperson Councillor Mdu Nkosi, members of the Executive Management, as well as eThekwini Municipality technical teams.
The project, which comprises a dam, abstraction works, and a water treatment plant, will significantly improve water supply in southern areas, including Isiphingo, Amanzimtoti, KwaMakhutha, Craigieburn, Umgababa, Mfume, Mnini, Magabheni, Thoyana, and Umkhomazi.
The project commenced in 2023, however, it encountered delays after the tender award process was challenged in court. It is now firmly back on track, as the parties to the dispute have reached a resolution. Upon completion in 2029, the project will produce 100 megalitres of water per day. Of this, 70 megalitres will be supplied to eThekwini Municipality, while 30 megalitres will be allocated to the Ugu District Municipality.
Mayor Xaba commended uMngeni-uThukela Water for the significant progress made in implementing the project. “I am pleased that the court action, which delayed the construction of this project has been resolved. The water utility has assured me that mitigation measures have been put in place to shorten the timelines. What excites me even more is that once we begin receiving 70 megalitres in the southern areas, we will be able to redirect this supply to the central and northern areas, thereby balancing water distribution across the City,” said Mayor Xaba.
The project is now 50 percent complete, and teams are working round the clock to ensure it is finished ahead of schedule. “Building adequate water infrastructure is crucial for the City to attract much-needed investment. We are confident that this project will unlock billions in investment, particularly in the south of Durban,” added Mayor Xaba. The water utility is also undertaking another major project in the Upper Umkhomazi area, which will produce 600 megalitres of water.
EThekwini Municipality is set to benefit from 400 megalitres from this R24 billion project, which has been described as a long-term solution to water challenges being experienced in the City.
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