The Tshwane metro recently launched an initiative to address non-revenue water losses.
The initiative is in partnership with the City of Aarhus in Denmark to introduce cutting-edge water management techniques.
These improved water management techniques include improved water leak detection and swift response to repair leaks.
The collaboration forms part of a broader effort to enhance the metro’s water infrastructure and preserve its water resources.
Through this collaborative effort, Danish experts provide specialised training to the city’s water reticulation artisans.
From September 10 to 12, the metro’s artisans were trained in the detection of passive and active water leaks using state-of-the-art technology.
The training included day-time sessions focused on theory and practical exercises, while night-time operations allowed the team to apply their skills in real-world conditions, taking advantage of the higher pressure and quieter environment of the network at night.
MMC for Finance Jacqui Uys joined the team for an on-site demonstration of the technology in use.
Uys praised the collaboration between the Tshwane, the Danish Embassy and the national Department of Water and Sanitation, underscoring the initiative’s potential to drastically reduce water losses across the city.
She said this initiative is a game-changer for Tshwane.
“It will help us tackle both visible and hidden leaks, and the training our artisans have received will be extended to all seven regions of the city, ensuring long-term improvements in water management.”
Uys said the partnership with Aarhus marks a key step in the city’s efforts to improve its water infrastructure, minimise losses, secure a sustainable water future for Tshwane residents and improve the city’s revenue.
The Department of Water and Sanitation advised that metros need to resolve metering and billing issues to increase payment levels, but also encourage the consumer to fix leaks, prosecute illegal water connections, and reduce theft of water.
This initiative to address non-revenue water losses comes at a time when the water utility providing bulk water to Tshwane has warned municipalities to reduce high consumption and to strategically preserve water.
The department said municipalities need to preserve water and adopt a practice that promotes responsible water consumption, which can help alleviate pressures on the existing water supply.
Moreover, municipalities are urged to use integrated technology to monitor and safeguard water infrastructure, and this can enhance management efforts and prevent future crises.
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