Water and Sanitation Minister, Senzo Mchunu, and his Deputy Minister, David Mahlobo, will today visit Vaal Dam and the Vaal Barrage operated by Rand Water and surrounding areas to assess infrastructure and the aftermath of the recent floods in the area.

Department spokesperson, Wisane Mavasa, said due to torrential rains in the last few weeks, the department had to implement dam safety precautions to safeguard the infrastructure and ensure that there was full storage capacity after the rainfall season.

“Twelve sluice gates were opened between 11 and 18 February 2023 as part of dam safety standards and procedures to manage water inflows upstream the Vaal River. Seven flood gates have now been closed, leaving 5 gates remaining open as the dam continues to decline towards 100% mark,” Mavasa said.

The Minister will also conduct an inspection of the Sebokeng Wastewater Treatment Works, as well as Leeukuil Dam in Vereeniging.

The Department of Water and Sanitation celebrates National Water Month from 1 to 31 March, which is an expansion of the United Nations (UN) annual World Water Day, which is observed on 22 March. – SAnews.gov.za