Plans to fast-track water supply to uMkhanyakude
'We have taken a decision that the Jozini dam cannot continue to be a single purpose dam serving the interests of some, to the exclusion of other' said Deputy Minister of Human Settlements, Water and Sanitation, David Mahlobo
DEPUTY Minister of Human Settlements, Water and Sanitation, David Mahlobo, says it is inconceivable that uMkhanyakude residents continue to face water challenges when the area has one of the largest dams in the country and existing bulk water infrastructure.
Mahlobo raised his concerns at the uMkhanyakude investment conference in Hluhluwe last week.
‘We have taken a decision that the Jozini dam cannot continue to be a single purpose dam serving the interests of some, to the exclusion of others.
‘It must be a multi-purpose dam and in this regard Mhlathuze Water has already completed a 40 mega litre project which will reticulate water from the dam to the surrounding communities.
‘This is an undertaking that requires about R2-billion,’ Mahlobo said.
He urged the provincial government to top up its municipal infrastructure grant to speed up water delivery in the area.
‘We need to ensure that we reticulate bulk water to all communities, however our regional bulk infrastructure grant needs to be topped up if we are to effectively deliver water to all our communities.’
Mahlobo said there are also plans to construct a new dam in Umfolozi to meet the anticipated future demand for water in the region.
KZN Premier Sihle Zikalala reiterated that the unhindered and reliable supply of water to the district can no longer be delayed.
‘Water is a catalyst for improved livelihoods, investment attraction and job creation.
‘As the province we will work with the Department of Human Settlements, Water and Sanitation, as well as Mhlathuze Water, to expedite the provision of water,’ the premier said.
Mhlathuze Water Chief Executive, Mthokozisi Duze, said the commissioning of the 40 mega litre per day water treatment plant will assist in servicing uMkhanyakude with potable water.
‘We have also entered into an agreement with the municipality to undertake the operation and maintenance of this scheme until such time that the municipality is capable of taking over the running of this scheme,’ Duze said.
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