Extension of Lesotho Highlands Water Project Tunnel Closure Due to Maintenance Issues
The Lesotho Highlands Water Project’s tunnel closure has been extended by three weeks due to maintenance delays. The agency faced technical challenges resulting in increased seepage issues. Despite this extension, water availability remains secure for users in the Integrated Vaal River System, supported by full dam capacities in the region.
The water and sanitation department has announced a three-week extension of the Lesotho Highlands Water Project’s (LHWP) tunnel closure due to delays in maintenance on the delivery tunnel in southern Lesotho. The reopening date for the water release into the tunnel will be revealed upon completion of the maintenance work.
Initially planned from October 1 to March 31, the tunnel closure experienced delays attributed to changing weather patterns and technical challenges faced by the Lesotho Highlands Development Agency. High seepage levels in the tunnel arose from modifications in sandblasting methods, transitioning from manual to automated processes, severely impacted by elevated humidity.
Spokesperson Wisane Mavasa confirmed that the contractor has acquired additional equipment to address the seepage issue. Although a recovery plan was enacted to expedite maintenance efforts, the delays were unavoidable. Meanwhile, maintenance in South Africa by the Trans Caledon Tunnel Authority remains on schedule.
Despite the extended closure, the department reassured users of the Integrated Vaal River System that water availability will not be compromised, as the Vaal Dam is currently operating at full capacity due to recent rainfall. Mavasa also affirmed that municipalities near the Liebenbergsvlei River will not face water shortages, with the Sol Plaatjie (Saulspoort) Dam currently at 82.1% capacity.
In summary, the tunnel closure of the Lesotho Highlands Water Project has been extended by three weeks due to maintenance delays caused by technical issues and changing weather. However, water availability for the Integrated Vaal River System users remains unimpeded, thanks to adequate reservoir levels and contingency measures. Authorities assert that there will be sufficient water supply for communities during the extended closure period.
Original Source: www.timeslive.co.za
