KNYSNA NEWS - Measurable progress is being made in restoring essential services in Knysna following a high-level steering committee meeting held under the Strengthened Section 154 Support Plan.
This is according to Western Cape Minister of Local Government, Environmental Affairs and Development Planning Anton Bredell, who said that while challenges remain, there is clear evidence of improved co-ordination and delivery across key service areas.
Infrastructure and roads
The intervention, led by the Western Cape Government in partnership with Knysna Municipality and sector departments, includes a strong focus on infrastructure rehabilitation.
Recent milestones include the completion of critical roadworks such as the surfacing of Simola Hill Road.
Routine maintenance and pothole repairs are continuing across priority areas, supported by increased labour capacity and planned national employment programme support.
Water and sanitation
In the water and sanitation sector, efforts are under way to restore pumping capacity at key abstraction points and rehabilitate groundwater systems.
Emergency bulk water augmentation projects are progressing through the design and construction phases, while the installation of conventional water meters aims to reduce water losses and improve revenue collection.
Repairs at sewer pump stations are also helping to reduce pollution risks.
Waste management
Waste management operations are showing signs of stabilisation, with contractors on site to restore infrastructure at transfer stations.
New equipment deliveries have been confirmed, and feasibility studies are under way to explore long-term waste-to-energy solutions in collaboration with neighbouring municipalities.
Strengthening capacity
The turnaround plan has also prioritised human resource capacity, with an increase in the appointment of technical and operational staff.
Temporary workers, including participants in the Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP), are being deployed to strengthen frontline service delivery.
"The Strengthened Section 154 Support Plan has allowed us to move decisively on urgent maintenance, stabilise core services and put longer-term recovery plans in place," Bredell said.
Ongoing support
The provincial government has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting Knysna through its recovery phase with continued oversight, funding and intergovernmental co-ordination aimed at placing the municipality on a sustainable service delivery path.
Provincial support to Knysna Municipality in recent years includes funding for geohydrological services and engineering work, amounting to R1.6m in 2023/24, R557 000 in 2024/25, and R6.1m allocated for the 2025/26 financial year.
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