District launches R20-million water project
Major rural water projects gains momentum
THE uThungulu District Municipality launched a major water reticulation project at KwaHlokohloko, Ward 22 uMlalazi Municipality on Friday.
They simultaneously handed over a pump station and reservoirs for the same project.
The sod turning for the KwaHlokohloko SSA5: Construction of Reticulation for Wards 22 and 23 took place amidst a huge community presence at the KwaMadolo Community Hall.
Addressing the event, District Mayor Thembeka Mchunu said the R20-million project in uMlalazi is part of the district’s concerted plan to fast-track the provision of water to rural areas.
‘We are excited that this project is taking water to the deep rural areas of our district, and shows our commitment towards service delivery,’ said Mchunu.
This project phase, which links to other completed projects in the area, will be constructed by Shula Construction cc and managed by consultants from ZAI Architects & Consulting Engineers.
The project footprint will cover the areas of Phalane, Kwa-Sabe, Gugushe and Phongola.
Since this is an EPWP (Expanded Public Works Programme) project it is estimated it will offer about 30 local jobs.
The project duration will be 10 months.
Completed phases included:
• The laying of the bulk pipeline stretching from Kwa-Sabe connecting from Mkhwanazi Traditional Area of uMhlathuze LM and proceeding via eKuphumuleni Clinic in Ward 23 to oYemeni sub-ward of Ward 22;
• The construction of a pump station at Lubisana area;
• The construction of four reservoirs.
Other phases covering the rest of the reticulation will follow in the near future as funds become available.
Handover
Later that morning the leadership of the district officially handed over the recently completed pump station and reservoirs for the same project.
The entire KwaHlokohloko Sub Supply Area 5 consists of 12 reservoirs, two pump stations, bulk and reticulation pipelines.
Total estimated construction value is around R158-million.
The pump station will supply water to the entire KwaHlokhloko Sub Supply Area 5 once the remaining pipelines and reservoirs are completed.
With a population of 13 662, some 2 277 households in the 11 755ha KwaHlokohloko SSA5 footprint area will benefit from having a secure water supply, and by the 60 jobs created in the bulk phase.
