Central SA
Lesotho Highlands Water Project’s maintenance: ‘Water security in balance’─── KEKELETSO MOSEBETSI 09:25 Sun, 02 Feb 2025
Minister of Water and Sanitation, Pemmy Majodina, has assured South Africans that water security remains stable as critical maintenance work continues on the Lesotho Highlands Water Project (LHWP).
Flanked by Deputy Minister David Mahlobo, Free State Premier MaQueen Letsoha-Mathae, and other officials, Majodina conducted an oversight visit to the LHWP tunnel at Clarens, Free State, on Saturday (1/2).
Majodina expressed satisfaction with the progress of the maintenance work and emphasised that sufficient water reserves have been secured to sustain the nation during the tunnel’s closure.
“We are doing good work and are on track to complete this project to make South Africa happy. We understand the impact of closing this tunnel on Gauteng, but we have been proactive,” said Majodina.
She noted that significant rainfall in December and January has contributed to stable water levels. “We haven’t even needed to release water from our dams due to the rain. This rainfall has helped us maintain enough water. Water security is in balance.”
Majodina urged residents to conserve water and address wastage by closing running taps. She also announced collaborative efforts with law enforcement to combat illegal water connections and tackle the so-called “water tanker mafias” responsible for vandalising infrastructure for financial gain.
The LHWP tunnel has been closed since October 31, 2024, for scheduled maintenance and refurbishment. The 37-kilometre tunnel plays a critical role in transferring water from Lesotho to South Africa, primarily benefiting the Gauteng region.
The Lesotho Highlands Development Agency (LHDA) oversees the maintenance of the transfer tunnels at the Muela Hydropower Station. Although LHDA has reported slight delays, a catch-up plan is being implemented to ensure the tunnel reopens by the end of March 2025, as planned.
The minister reiterated the importance of responsible water use and infrastructure protection. “While we are doing our part to ensure long-term water security, we need every citizen to play their role. Save water, report leaks, and help us preserve this vital resource.”
She also said they will be working with law enforcement authorities to deal with illegal connection challenges and the issue of water tanker mafias who vandalise infrastructure to benefit through tenders in municipalities.
