DWS hands over two upgraded pumps to LLM
In 2023, the Gert Sibande District Municipality (GSDM) was appointed to implement infrastructure projects worth R350m, funded through the DWS’s Regional Bulk Infrastructure Grant (RBIG).
Over the years, Lekwa has been plagued by sewage leaks in both residential and business areas, posing serious health and safety risks.
In 2024, the Regional Court in Standerton imposed a R70m fine on the Lekwa Local Municipality (LLM) for severe pollution of the Vaal River.
The leaks contaminated the river, causing significant environmental damage. The municipality was also fined for failing to comply with notices and directives from the Department of Water and Sanitation (DWS).
“The situation required immediate attention, and the DWS identified intervention projects within the municipality,” said Wisane Mavasa, spokesperson for the DWS.
In 2023, the Gert Sibande District Municipality (GSDM) was appointed to implement infrastructure projects worth R350m, funded through the DWS’s Regional Bulk Infrastructure Grant (RBIG).
As part of the intervention, two pumps were handed over to the LLM on June 6, located in Steijn and Taljaard Streets. These will ensure that sewage from Ward 3 is directed to the waste water treatment plant (WWTP) for processing, reducing the frequency of sewage spills.
“The LLM has experienced infrastructure failure in both water and sanitation services, which resulted in excessive leaks and exposed the community to health hazards,” Mavasa said.
The Standerton water treatment plant (WTP) is undergoing refurbishment to restore its full capacity and ensure the delivery of clean drinking water.
Deputy Minister of Water and Sanitation, David Mahlobo, and GSDM District Mayor Walter Mngomezulu visited the LLM main offices to engage with the community and conduct oversight at the WTP. Currently, the plant’s capacity is 37 megalitres per day.
Upon completion, it will be able to supply 60 megalitres daily. According to Mavasa, civil and mechanical work is 60% complete, with full operations expected by October this year.
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Mahlobo expressed satisfaction with the progress made in addressing sewage spills and water quality issues in the municipality.
“The municipality was unable to fulfill its responsibility to provide basic water services and protect residents from sewage exposure. As a result, the DWS had to intervene as part of a broader government effort,” he stated.
He added that the department mobilised all available resources and expert teams to tackle the long-standing issues in Lekwa.
Mngomezulu emphasised that the involvement of GSDM demonstrates a renewed commitment to service delivery.
“This is not just an upgrade to Standerton’s sewer infrastructure but a milestone in improving services,” he said. “The new pumps symbolize progress and restore dignity to the people of Lekwa.”
According to Lubabalo Majenge, LLM’s communications officer, GSDM’s support was instrumental in the success of the project.
He added that the upgraded pump stations have significantly improved wastewater flow from households to the WWTP.
“This project has reduced sewer spillages and blockages,” said Majenge.
