WATCH: Benefits of boreholes
BRYANSTON – Borehole water will alleviate pressure on Joburg's water supply.
Joburg Water in conjunction with Borehole Water Association partnered to explore alternative ways of water supply with a borehole drilling demonstration at Bryanston Country Club on 3 February.
Joburg Water (JW) managing director Lungile Dhlamini said, “There has been a strategic focus on closing the gap between supply and demand.” As part of the City’s sustainable mandate, JW has looked at innovative ways to curb the water demand throughout the City through the introduction of alternative water supplies. One such alternative is groundwater from boreholes. Groundwater is stored under the ground and is supplemented by rain water.
Dhlamini stated that they will be focusing on middle to higher incomes areas. “I want to strongly encourage the residents of the City of Johannesburg to work together with us and make an effort to find out if they will be able to drill a borehole in their area,” added Dhlamini.
It is a plea to residents to consider drilling a borehole in these areas : Founders Hill, Dunkeld West, Linksfield, Elton Hill, Bramley, Houghton Estate, Sunningdale, Melrose Estate, Rosebank and Parktown North. After a study looking at the size of the population in these areas, the number of stands, as well as the water demand, they were found to be the top 10 highest water users within the city.
JW is in discussions with City Parks and Zoo to implement boreholes. They will be identifying areas of high demand.
The MMC of Environment and Infrastructure Services, Mfikoe Coj said the water will need to be tested in order to classify it as drinkable. After viewing the demonstration of the borehole drilling, MMC Mfikoe said, ”It is clear today that borehole water does work’’.
And we have borehole water! @randburg_sun @jhbwater pic.twitter.com/ydIR51daTT
— Ashtyn Mackenzie (@AshtynMackenzie) February 3, 2016
She added, ”Water is life and sanitation is dignity… we can ensure that our city becomes a world-class African city.”
The Borehole Water Association said the quality of ground water is excellent. Andrew Johnstone, managing director of GCS water and environment consultants said, “[The initial cost] is expensive, however, it ensures good return on investment for the future benefits.” Johnstone added that they will be using South African-based expertise and skills.
In order to use borehole water for domestic use, in line with the National Water Act, if you use less than 10 cubic metres – no registration is required.
JW’s management of the borehole water will pertain to the development of a database of groundwater. This will ensure that the water table levels do not drop too low and that residents do not use more water than is available. It stresses that if one would like to use the water indoors that it be tested to ensure purity.
Details: Joburg Water, 011 688 1400.
