Lesotho Highlands Water Project Tunnel Closure Extended Due to Maintenance Challenges
The Lesotho Highlands Water Project’s tunnel closure has been extended by three weeks due to maintenance delays caused by seepage and weather challenges. Current water levels in dams remain sufficient to support users in the region.
The Lesotho Highlands Water Project (LHWP) will experience an extended closure of its water transfer and delivery tunnels by three weeks due to unforeseen maintenance delays. The announcement was made by the water and sanitation department, highlighting that completion dates for the maintenance work will be confirmed after progress is achieved.
Originally scheduled from October 1 to March 31, the tunnel’s closure faced delays due to changing weather conditions and technical difficulties encountered by the Lesotho Highlands Development Agency. The stated challenges include unexpected seepage in the tunnel, a problem attributed to an adjustment in sandblasting techniques from manual to automated.
Spokesperson Wisane Mavasa explained that high humidity has adversely impacted the automated sandblasting method, prompting the contractor to acquire additional equipment to tackle the seepage issue. While a recovery plan is now in motion to expedite maintenance work in Lesotho, unavoidable delays persist. Meanwhile, maintenance efforts in South Africa by the Trans Caledon Tunnel Authority remain on track.
Despite the tunnel closure, water users are reassured that the extension will not affect water availability in the Integrated Vaal River System. With the Vaal Dam currently at full capacity of 101.51% due to recent rainfall, assurances have been made regarding water supply for municipalities along the Liebenbergsvlei River.
Mavasa added that the Sol Plaatjie (Saulspoort) Dam is at a satisfactory level of 82.1%, ensuring no water shortages will occur despite the extended closure. The dam can support communities such as Bethlehem, Reitz, and Tweeling for up to nine months, surpassing the six months previously anticipated for the LHWP tunnel shutdown.
The LHWP tunnel closure has been extended due to maintenance delays, primarily from taking automated sandblasting and increased seepage challenges. While the extension will not disrupt water availability in the Integrated Vaal River System, steps are being taken to address these issues for future operations. Satisfactory water levels in the Sol Plaatjie Dam ensure continued water supply to downstream communities.
Original Source: www.timeslive.co.za
