KNYSNA NEWS - The multi-million rand Charlesford pipeline that will bring much-needed water relief to the Knysna area is ready to be connected to the Eastford line, which will allow more water to be pumped from the Knysna and Gouna rivers.
The construction of the Charlesford line started in July 2018 as one of the several short-term interventions in response to the water scarcity at the time.
The project ran at a total cost of R46 322,557 and was funded through the Municipal Infrastructure Grant (MIG). Once completed, the municipality will be able to pump 3 00L/s of raw water, a significant increase from the current 1 36L/s.
Acting Knysna Municipal Manager Dawid Adonis confirmed that the pipeline is ready to be connected.
"This will allow us to pump more water from the Knysna and Gouna rivers, securing access to clean water as long as the rivers are flowing at a sufficient rate." Adonis asked residents' assistance and patience during the connection period, which will take a minimum of seven days to complete, depending on the weather and other unforeseen circumstances.
"We will ensure that everything under our control is in place before starting the process. We will not initiate this connection procedure before our reservoirs and the Akkerkloof Dam are at capacity. However, we will not be able to pump raw water during this time and ask that water usage is reduced to only the necessary until the connection is secure," he said.
"Teams with the relevant expertise will be stationed at both sides of the line to ensure that all functions in unison upon completion of the coupling."
The project includes an upgrade to the power supply from Eskom; the laying of a new pipeline from the Knysna River to the water treatment works; rebuilding the two water pump stations and a storage reservoir; and upgrading the mechanical and electrical infrastructure.
Works that still need to be concluded include connecting new steel manifolds with anchor blocks; replacing an old section of piping; and commissioning civil, electrical and mechanical works for specific aspects of the project.
"We will notify the public once a timeline has been established for the connection of the pipelines," said Adonis.
He said this project may have been initiated as a response to the recent drought, but it will provide water security for years to come.
"It is but one example of how the municipality is working to not only provide, but secure basic services to our residents - and to improve on the delivery of our services. This is how we work towards creating an inspired, innovative, inclusive Knysna," he said.
He called on people to report any leaks to 044 302 6331 during normal working hours or 044 302 8911 after hours and report any water wastage or abuse to the WhatsApp number, 060 998 7000.
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