Budget constraints reason for removing security and delaying pumps project

The metro has confirmed that budget constraints were behind both the withdrawal of security guards and delays to the commissioning of the Klapperkop backup pump project.

This has raised concerns among residents and ward councillor Shane Maas about the security of critical water infrastructure.

Maas said he has since started a petition after the removal of security guards at the Klapperkop pump station on June 10.

“I’m going to continue running the petition for the rest of the month and submit it to the mayoral committee,” he said.

He explained that this is unfortunate because the pump station is critical infrastructure that helps about 5 000 residents when the Carina Reservoir runs dry.

Maas added that the pumps are not meant to supply the Klapperkop Reservoir directly but often assist the Carina Reservoir during times when Rand Water’s pressure is low.

“Carina relies on Rand Water for its water supply. If Rand Water has issues, Klapperkop Reservoir won’t supply Carina because Klapperkop serves hospitals, while Carina only serves residences.

The new pumps will allow water to be pumped from Klapperkop pump station to Carina, reducing the wait for water from 12 days to about seven days. This is a lifeline for residents,” he said.

The pumps were nearly ready for commissioning in January when vandals broke into the site, leaving the infrastructure badly damaged.

Security was deployed in March to protect what remained. However, Maas confirmed that it has now been removed, once again leaving the site vulnerable.

“Without proper security, we risk further vandalism, which delays water security for Carina residents even more. In January, the pumps were almost ready, but now we are back to square one,” he said.

He has raised concerns that the metro’s ongoing financial troubles, and said that recent court rulings affecting revenue could impact funding for the project.

“During Cilliers Brink’s term as mayor, alternatives were explored to lessen the metro’s dependence on Rand Water.”

According to Maas, the Rietvlei purification plant expansion is one such project, but it will only slightly increase capacity.

“The Klapperkop Reservoir remains vital for hospitals and other services, but I worry this project might be cut because of the city’s financial position,” he said.

He has launched a petition to demand that the metro reinstate permanent security at the site.

He is inviting residents to sign in person at the intersection of Skilpad and Elephant roads in Monument Park.

“Your support is important so that we can hold the metro accountable and secure a reliable water supply for our community,” he said.

Metro spokesperson Lindela Mashigo confirmed that the project has been stalled due to vandalism and budget issues.

“The project has been halted following an incident of vandalism in January, as well as budget constraints for repairs,” he said.

Mashigo explained that the commissioning was delayed not only by vandalism but also by a lack of funds to complete pipe reconfigurations.

He added that a budget has now been allocated to complete the installations.

“The security guards were deployed at the site from January until June 30, after which they were withdrawn due to financial constraints.

“Ever since January until June 30, there was security on site. Security was removed after this period due to budget constraints,” he said.

Mashigo stressed that the matter has now been handed over to the Tshwane Metro Police Department.

“Yes, the city is aware of renewed risks of vandalism. The TMPD branch, through its Asset Protection Unit, is handling the matter,” he said.

On when residents can expect the pumps to finally be commissioned and supply Carina during Rand Water interruptions, Mashigo said the project is now included in the 2025/26 budget.

He stated that the project is being budgeted for this new financial year.

“A quote has been requested from the current service providers, and the exact date will be provided as soon as the scope is finalised and an order number is issued,” he said.

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