Phase one of the Lower Tugela Bulk Water Supply was designed to produce 55 megalitres of potable water per day, however stage two of the project looks to double its capacity.

According to water and sanitation deputy minster Pamela Tshwete, who visited the massive weir last Thursday, the estimated budget for phase two was R737 million.

While still in the design stage the second purification plant would dramatically change the district’s ability to supply water to residents.

Construction on the first phase began in February 2013, with the taps opening in April 2016 to supply water to Ballito, Mandeni, Ndwendwe and surrounding areas.

Umgeni Water praised Tshwete for their “outstanding work” in building the R1,6 billion project in Mandeni last Thursday.

The scheme can provide drinking water to more than 300 000 people and, so far, 14 702 previously unconnected households have been connected to the system.

“R900 million was provided through the regional bulk infrastructure grant.

“A total of R378 million was spent on 20 small medium micro enterprises (SMME) that took part in construction.

“This is in line with our national development plan (NDP) that emphasises the development of SMMEs,” said Tshwete.

Tshwete said she hoped to return soon to outline the process plan for the implementation of phase two.

“This project belongs to you [the community].

“You must protect and nurture it and it must not be vandalised. You as the community have the responsibility to protect and take good care of it.

“We must further note that climate change is a reality as it results in challenges such as drought, so how we use water is very important.”

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