R1.7-million project to address uMhlanga water woes

Frequent water pipe bursts and hundreds of thousands of Rands worth of damage to road surfaces has been something residents of Herrwood Park in uMhlanga have had to put up with in recent years, Northglen News reports.

Much of the ageing asbestos pipes in the area have deteriorated over the years leading to recurring water bursts explained ward councillor, Nicole Bollman.

The deteriorating water infrastructure in the area is now undergoing a major facelift with the Fairview pipe replacement project worth an estimated R1.7-million.

The purpose of the project is to replace sections of the existing water reticulation system focusing on three of the worst affected roads, Fairview Drive, Campbell Drive and Broadwood Drive.

“The problem with asbestos cement is as it gets older it starts cracking, and it cracks along the pipes which has led to the frequent bursting of water pipes. This is a much-needed project and by replacing the pipes on the affected roads, it will help save water in the long run. The project started in February but was halted as the county went into a hard lockdown.

“The workers recently restarted the project around three weeks ago and they’ve made good progress. Another area of concern is Broadwood Park which has also suffered considerable damage to the fence line and the field which is partially covered in sand. I’ve spoken to senior officials within the roads and stormwater department who hope to complete the replacement project before the end of the year,” she said.