A water treatment plant as part of a R5-billion Lower uMkhomazi Bulk Water Supply Scheme is currently in the works in Umkomaas.

For the past few weeks, locals in the area have noticed excavation on privately owned land purchased by Umgeni Water in New Haven, in preparation for the construction of the water treatment plant.

It is intended for water purification and not a sewer plant as many locals have assumed.
The purpose of this massive bulk water supply scheme is to increase the assurance of water supply, particularly for residents from Amanzimtoti to Hibberdene.

The water project site will be fenced and this will affect numerous home owners in New Haven. Property owners affected by the fencing were invited to a meeting to raise queries and concerns, hosted by Umgeni Water at the New Haven sports field last Friday.

Several residents attended the meeting, but many others who were unable to due to work and other commitments sent queries via attendees or did not get a chance to speak on the matter.

At the meeting, it was explained that the fencing will consist of a high boundary wall positioned about 1.5m from the property owners’ walls/fences.

The property owners existing walls/fences will be removed and replaced with temporary fencing while the wall is being built, and a V-channel storm water drain will be constructed in the 1.5m space.

The Umgeni team and contractors also used maps and showed residents the exact location of the boundary wall.

Residents questioned what would happen if damages occurred and whether or not they will be compensated for this, as well as what would happen if someone objects. The Umgeni team noted these matters and will only be able to provide feedback at a follow-up meeting in about two weeks time.

It was agreed by all who attended that the next meeting take place on a weekend, preferably a Sunday so more residents are available to attend.

Many locals regard this as a great scheme that will potentially rid Umkomaas of ongoing water shortages, while others are a little concerned about the construction, fearing the worst for their properties.

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