Drinking water for rural communities
T
he completion of a largescale water supply scheme covering seven villages in uMuzimkhulu Local Municipality, KwaZulu-Natal, is a game changer for the surrounding rural communities. The approximately 12-month project commenced in May 2021. “We were honoured to be awarded this contract, as the project was multifaceted, to say the least,” says Vuyokazi Radebe, a junior technologist at Zimile Consulting Engineers, adding that there is ‘no one-size-fits-all’ approach to rural bulk water supply, particularly when it comes to old, deteriorating infrastructure. “Many of the sites were in a poor condition, had illegal connections, and had insufficient water treatment
Work in progress on a largescale water supply project for seven villages within uMuzimkhulu Local Municipality
Vuyokazi Radebe, junior technologist, Zimile Consulting Engineers
processes, deeming the water unsafe,” she explains.
Boreholes and storage tanks Across the seven villages, Zimile drilled a total of four new boreholes, refurbished one, and revamped two springs. In addition, three new water reticulation systems were designed and executed, with the refurbishment of another three. A total of three new water storage tanks were also added. The team at Zimile made sure that each site was equipped with the right control and monitoring technology where necessar y. Importantly, additions were also made in terms of water treatment, with two sites being fitted with chlorine dosing plants to ensure the borehole water does not pose a danger to the communities. “Providing clean and safe drinking water is a priority for many local governments. We are glad to be playing our part by offering comprehensive and reliable water infrastructure solutions,” says Radebe. “Working across scattered and remote communities was no simple task, but we rose to the occasion and are ready to apply the lessons learnt to our next rural infrastructure project,” Radebe concludes.
