AN INCREASE in algae in the raw water supply at Durban Heights Water Treatment Works has clogged treatment filters, leading to reduced water volumes to some areas on the South Coast.

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uMngeni-uThukela Water said the affected areas include parts of Isipingo, Folweni, and Nsimbini.

eThekwini Municipality spokesperson Senzelwe Mzila said that over the past two weeks, algal volumes in water received from the Albert Falls and Nagle Dam system have increased significantly. He said several factors, including pollution of raw water sources upstream of the dams and rising temperatures, have contributed to the algal growth.

“uMngeni-uThukela Water is implementing several interventions to address the situation. These include optimising water treatment processes and applying advanced chemical treatment methods to remove the excess algae and restore filter efficiency. As part of these interventions, several filters will be temporarily taken offline to undergo chemical treatment aimed at removing the accumulated algae,” said Mzila.

uMngeni-uThukela Water will reduce its bulk water supply to eThekwini by 40 megalitres (40 million litres) until the situation improves. Mzila added that the City is conducting continuous water quality and quantity monitoring to ensure that the water produced continues to meet the required drinking water quality standards.

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