Water, water everywhere... with lots of drops to drink

KNYSNA NEWS - The connection of the multi-million rand Charlesford pipeline to the Eastford line this week to pump water from the Knysna and Gouna rivers, has brought much-needed relief for Knysna's water woes.

The construction of the Charlesford line commenced in July 2018. The project ran at a total cost of R46 322,557 and was funded through the Municipal Infrastructure Grant (MIG).

Last week Knysna Mayor Elrick van Aswegen, accompanied by mayoral committee members, Speaker Mertle Gombo and senior officials, visited the site prior to the final testing and the commissioning of the line. Van Aswegen said the Charlesford water scheme could be described as a major milestone in improving Knysna's water security.

"The new pipeline will enable the municipality to pump 300L/s of raw water instead of the current 136L/s. We thank the public for their patience and cooperation during the last week. It remains, however, in the best interest of all residents to continue to use water sparingly to protect this precious natural resource," he said.

Knysna Municipality's Director Infrastructure Services Pravir Hariparsad inspects the new connection along with municipal crews on site. Photo: Knysna Municipality

Van Aswegen apologised for the recent extended break in water supply to areas of Hornlee.

"I understand that not having access to water makes life difficult and is a cause for great frustration. Please know that we did everything in our power to reconnect the water supply as soon as possible and to provide water to residents in the meantime. We apologise for the lack of clear, constant communication from our side following the unexpected pipe breaks that affected the pipeline between the Bigai and Sunridge reservoirs," he said.

The filling of the Bigai and Sunridge reservoirs continued throughout Thursday night in an effort to mitigate the situation. Unfortunately two breaks occurred in the pipeline, affecting the water flow between these reservoirs. This unforeseen occurrence further delayed the reconnection of the water supply.

"They added more water trucks to service the area and their drivers did their best to reach everyone in a stressful situation. "Thank you for your patience and understanding in this matter," Van Aswegen said.

The Charlesford water connections.

The connecting of the pipelines also caused a discolouring of Knysna's drinking water, but on Monday, Knysna Municipality assured residents that the discoloured water from their taps is safe for human consumption. It said the coupling of the new Charlesford pipe to the Eastford pipeline is the reason behind the coloured water, as water comes from the Akkerkloof Dam instead of the Knysna River while the coupling is being effected. The municipality said the discolouration of the water would be improved soon. "This potable water may be discoloured, but it is safe for human consumption," the notice stated.

"We are now blending water from the river with the dam water and are working with the chemical supplier's expert on fixing the aesthetic quality of the water. We apologise for any inconvenience caused and appreciate your patience."

Knysna Mayor Elrick van Aswegen (far left) leading a delegation to the Charlesford pipeline.