KNYSNA NEWS - Urgent efforts to stabilise Knysna's water supply have received a boost following the approval of R2.5m in emergency funding from province for critical infrastructure upgrades at the Charlesford Pump Station.
The provincial Minister of Local Government, Environmental Affairs and Development Planning, Anton Bredell, has authorised the transfer of funds to the Knysna Municipality for the procurement of new pump motors aimed at improving the town's ability to move raw water to storage facilities.
The Charlesford Pump Station is a key component of Knysna's water supply system, responsible for transferring water from the Knysna River to the Akkerkloof Dam. When full, the dam can provide about four months' worth of water to the town.
"This is an immediate and necessary intervention to strengthen Knysna's water security. Even though the department has medium- and long-term plans in place to address water sustainability, the current situation requires urgent action to ensure the municipality has the capacity to capture and store available water," Bredell said.
The emergency work, expected to be completed in April, will significantly improve the municipality's ability to pump water when the river flow is sufficient.
Bredell emphasised the importance of ensuring infrastructure readiness during these windows of opportunity.
"The reality is that when the river flows, the infrastructure must be ready. These new pump motors will ensure that Knysna can pump water efficiently to Akkerkloof Dam and make full use of available water during these critical periods," he said.
The funding forms part of a broader provincial support initiative aimed at stabilising the local water system, with ongoing co-ordination between the Western Cape Government, Knysna Municipality, the Garden Route District Municipality, and national stakeholders through joint operational structures.
Bredell added that while infrastructure improvements are under way, water conservation remains essential.
"Residents, businesses and visitors are urged to continue using water responsibly and to comply with all water restrictions currently in place," he said.
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