The Lesotho Highlands Water Project Tunnel is preparing for a six-month closure as it undergoes planned maintenance, jointly undertaken by the Lesotho Highlands Development Agency and Trans-Caledon Tunnel Authority.
The transfer tunnel links the Katse dam with the Muela power station and Muela dam and a delivery tunnel linking Muela dam with the Ash River Outfall works between Clarens and Bethlehem system, and was commissioned in January 1998.
The closure, from October 1, 2024, to March 31, 2025, has been prompted by the need for extensive maintenance and repair works in the tunnels to ensure optimal water supply and will impact Integrated Vaal River System water users.
“The shutdown will have implications for water supply to South Africa during that period. The Vaal River System, as well as users along the Liebenbergsvlei river, will be affected, as well as Mafube, Nketoana and Dihlabeng local municipalities in the Free State,” the Department of Water and Sanitation (DWS) warned.
The DWS is currently engaging these municipalities and plans are in place to ensure that water supply to these areas is sustained during the shutdown period.
The closure will, however, have an effect on water availability from the rivers.
“The department would like to make all water users aware of this well in advance in order to ensure proper planning for this period. It will be of utmost importance for communities along the affected areas to use water sparingly during this period.”