Construction of the first phase of the uMkhomazi Water Scheme is nearing completion, with only minor outstanding works being attended to by engineers and project managers.
The project is expected to be commissioned before the end of the year and will abstract raw water from the uMkhomazi River to augment supply to Durban South areas, including Isiphingo, Umbogintwini, Umgababa and Craigieburn.
Today, 11 June, members of the Presidential eThekwini Working Group (PeWG), together with a delegation from the Presidency, national and provincial departments, the eThekwini Municipality leadership, and members of the media, visited the construction site.
The delegation was taken through a technical briefing, site walkabout, and received an update on progress of this critical infrastructure project aimed at addressing intermittent water supply challenges in the south of Durban.
The on-site visit followed a morning media roundtable led by eThekwini Mayor, Councillor Cyril Xaba, who outlined key milestones achieved by the City with the support of the PeWG.
The uMkhomazi Water Scheme is a catalytic infrastructure project set to transform water security, support economic growth, and improve the quality of life for communities across eThekwini Municipality.
The project is also expected to enhance investor confidence and contribute to renewed economic activity in the region.
Mayor Xaba highlighted the significance of the project. “We are making significant strides with the Lower uMkhomazi Bulk Water Supply Scheme. Last week, we introduced the contractor who will commence with the second phase of the Water Treatment Works. This is the final phase of the R11 billion project, which includes a storage dam, a water abstraction point, and a water treatment plant. Upon completion, the project will produce 100 megalitres of water per day, of which 75 megalitres will be supplied to eThekwini Municipality. This volume will be sufficient to supply all areas in the south, from Isiphingo to uMkhomazi.”
Mayor Xaba further noted that although the project experienced delays due to legal processes, Umngeni-uThukela Water has committed to ensuring that communities will begin receiving water from the scheme by the end of next year.
The PeWG leadership and senior government departments are expected to continue their strategic engagements as part of the second phase of the programme, as announced by the President in March.
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