City of Tshwane and Magalies Water Complete First Phase of Hammanskraal Water Treatment Project

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08-01-2025
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Cellular-news
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The City of Tshwane, in partnership with Magalies Water, has successfully completed the first phase of a significant water treatment project aimed at supplying clean water to the Hammanskraal community. This development marks a pivotal step towards resolving the area’s longstanding water quality issues.

Background

For years, residents of Hammanskraal have endured challenges with unclean water, leading to health concerns and reliance on water tankers for daily needs. The situation reached a critical point in June 2023 when a cholera outbreak claimed over 30 lives, drawing national attention to the urgent need for a sustainable solution. 

Project Overview

In response to the crisis, the Department of Water and Sanitation, along with the City of Tshwane, initiated a comprehensive project to enhance water treatment facilities in the region. The first phase involved the construction of a 12.5 megalitre per day (Ml/day) potable water package plant at the existing Klipdrift Water Treatment Works in Marokolong. This facility is equipped with advanced technology to ensure the provision of safe drinking water to the community. 

Completion and Testing

As of November 2024, the first phase has been completed, and the plant is undergoing final testing and commissioning. This process includes pressure testing and flushing of pipelines to ensure the integrity of the distribution network. The City of Tshwane has advised residents to refrain from consuming tap water until official confirmation is provided regarding its safety. Mayor Nasiphi Moya stated, “Our teams are currently conducting final tests and will announce when the water is safe for consumption.” 

Phased Implementation

The project is structured into four phases, each adding 12.5 Ml/day capacity, culminating in a total of 50 Ml/day upon full completion. The subsequent phases are scheduled for completion in March, April, and June 2025, respectively. This phased approach ensures a systematic enhancement of water supply to various regions within Hammanskraal. 

Beneficiary Areas

The initial phase aims to benefit several areas, including Mandela Village, Marokolong, Ramotse, Kekana Gardens, Steve Bikoville, Kudube Unit 9, Babelegi Industrial Park, and Bridgeview Informal Settlement. These regions have been prioritized due to their acute need for clean water. 

Community Engagement

The City of Tshwane has actively engaged with the community through regular updates and public meetings. In August 2024, a community imbizo was held at Makgoba Sebothoma Hall in Hammanskraal, where officials provided insights into the progress of the water infrastructure projects. Residents had the opportunity to interact directly with the panel, fostering transparency and trust between the authorities and the community. 

Challenges and Delays

The project has encountered challenges, including unforeseen hard rock formations during construction, which delayed the laying of key pipelines. Additionally, power outages affected the off-site manufacturing of critical mechanical components. Despite these setbacks, the commitment to providing clean water remains unwavering. 

Financial Considerations

Recognizing the financial burden on residents, the City of Tshwane has undertaken an audit of water meters across 37,620 households. Of these, 14,004 meters are scheduled for replacement between September and November 2024. Furthermore, the city has proposed resolutions to write off historical debt associated with the audited meters, providing residents with a fresh start as they transition to receiving potable tap water.