FREE State municipalities are facing water supply challenges due to the ongoing maintenance of the Lesotho Highlands Water Tunnel, but government intervention is helping to manage the impact.
The tunnel, a vital water source for parts of the Free State and Gauteng, has been closed since 31 October 2024 for extensive refurbishment.
Despite some delays in Lesotho, the project remains on track to be completed by the end of March 2025, according to the Department of Water and Sanitation (DWS).
“(We are) closely monitoring the progress of the maintenance repair work being done and is satisfied that the work will be completed according to the planned schedule,” the department said in a statement this week.
Municipalities along the Liebenbergsvlei River, including Dihlabeng, Nketoana and Mafube, have been forced to impose water restrictions to manage supply, while farmers in the area are operating under government-imposed limits on water abstraction.
“The department has also gazetted water restrictions, which guide water usage by farmers in the area from 1 October 2024 till 31 March 2025,” the DWS said.
Under the regulations, farmers on the left bank of the Ash and Liebenbergsvlei rivers can draw water from 6:00 am on Mondays to 6:00 am on Wednesdays, while those on the right bank are permitted from 6:00 am on Wednesdays to 6:00 am on Fridays.
Authorities say water levels at Saulspoort Dam, a key supply source for affected municipalities, remain stable at 78.74 percent, ensuring a continued water supply despite the shutdown.
The Trans Caledon Tunnel Authority, which oversees maintenance in South Africa, has completed the dewatering process and is currently refurbishing the 37-kilometre tunnel.
In Lesotho, the Lesotho Highlands Development Agency has encountered some delays but is implementing a catch-up plan to complete the work on time.
The Lesotho Highlands Water Tunnel is a critical infrastructure project that supplies water to Gauteng and parts of the Free State.
The maintenance work is necessary to prevent failures and ensure long-term water security for millions of people.
The DWS said it is working closely with local municipalities to improve communication and raise awareness on water conservation.
“The DWS, together with the affected municipalities, have been working tirelessly in ensuring that municipalities communicate effectively and promptly with their communities about water issues that arise and conduct public awareness campaigns to encourage responsible water usage and water conservation, particularly during the time of a tunnel closure,” the department said.
The tunnel is expected to reopen at the end of March, restoring normal water supply to affected municipalities. – Staff Reporter