LNW needs R186m for Phalaborwa flood repairs
LNW requires R186 million to repair flood-damaged infrastructure in Phalaborwa, as no disaster relief funding has been received.
PHALABORWA – Lepelle Northern Water (LNW) will require R186 million to repair infrastructure damaged during the January-February floods in the Phalaborwa area.
This was announced by LNW CEO Dr Cornelius Ruiters during a recent media briefing held at Fusion Boutique Hotel in Polokwane.
Repairs funded from own resources
Ruiters said teams are working around the clock to repair damaged pipelines and other infrastructure. He noted that the repairs are currently being funded from the organisation’s own resources, as no disaster relief funding has yet been received.
The Phalaborwa Water Treatment Plant is LNW’s largest facility in the province, with a capacity of 148 megalitres. Its primary function is the supply of industrial and mining water.
During the briefing, the Herald asked about claims that LNW failed to open barrages during the floods, allegedly contributing to flooding at the Kambaku II Boat Safaris and Lodge situated on the Olifants River.
The organisation denied these claims, stating they were untrue and adding that LNW cannot control people building on or below floodlines.
Board chairperson Dr Nndweleni Mphephu said the organisation is in the process of renovating the barrages. He added that, as repairs continue, new infrastructure will be built above the floodline and designed to be more climate-resilient.
Municipal debt remains a major challenge
Mphephu also highlighted outstanding debt from municipalities as one of LNW’s biggest challenges.
While some municipalities are making payments through various arrangements, he said all still owe the organisation money.
LNW further clarified that many local water challenges, including the lack of water in the Lulekani Four Rooms area, are not the responsibility of the organisation.
Instead, these issues fall under water reticulation, which is the responsibility of Ba-Phalaborwa Municipality and Mopani District Municipality.
LNW said it continues to engage with both municipalities and is doing its best to ensure problems are addressed.
The Herald asked Ba-Phalaborwa Municipality spokesperson Jonas Mahesu for comment on the Four Rooms water issue, but no response has been received.
