The circulation of a social media video showing the damaged slabs raised safety concerns, particularly in the wake of recent heavy flooding in North West.

In a letter dated 24 February 2025, addressed to the Deputy Minister, Agri NW CEO Naudé Pienaar expressed concerns about the dam’s condition, citing erosion from previous floods and structural vulnerabilities, particularly when the dam exceeds 80% capacity. At the time, water levels had surged by over 10%, reaching 95% capacity, prompting further concerns.

“We have warned that further damage could be catastrophic and that urgent repairs are necessary,” Pienaar stated.

However, department spokesperson Dr. Mandla Mathebula refuted claims that the damage was caused by recent or past flooding.

“We are aware of the damaged slabs and want to assure our stakeholders and the public that despite this damage, there is no imminent risk of dam failure,” Mathebula clarified.

He explained that the damage resulted from the gradual leaching of fine material through superficial contraction joints in the slabs, caused by wave action over time.

“All precautionary stability checks were conducted during the design phase of the major maintenance work currently underway at the dam. Based on these assessments, the upstream slope continues to meet the required safety standards,” he added.

Mathebula further stated that the department is actively managing water levels in both the Vaal and Bloemhof Dams to ensure safety:

• Controlled Water Releases: The department has increased water releases from Bloemhof Dam due to rising inflows from upstream catchments and recent rainfall. These measures are intended to keep the dam’s water levels at or below full supply capacity, currently at 99%.
• Safety Precautions: The releases remain within safe limits and are not expected to cause downstream flooding.
• Vaal Dam Monitoring: With the Vaal Dam at 96% capacity, the department is closely monitoring inflows and potential discharges to manage water levels effectively.

Dr. Mathebula emphasised that the situation is being closely monitored and that stakeholders will be informed promptly should any updates to operating procedures become necessary in response to an emergency.

OFM News/Kekeletso Mosebetsi mvh/cg