All systems go for Northern Cape mega water project

© Péter Gudella – 123RF.com

Phase one of the project, which is an 82km pipeline, will stretch from Roscoe in Kathu to Black Rock.

“The maximum capacity of the current scheme is 2,500m³/h and the new scheme will be able to supply a peak demand of 5200m³/h, including future water supply to Botswana. The system will be upgraded by replacing the existing pipeline with a larger diameter pipeline,” the department said.

The original scheme was built 56 years ago and is beyond its lifespan. It no longer has the capacity to supply sufficient water to satisfy the increased demand brought about by mines, municipalities and agricultural production.

On completion, beneficiaries of phase one will include 14 livestock farms, 12 mines, solar parks and the communities of Kathu, Olifantshoek and Hotazel, benefiting a population of 23,499.

The driving force for the increased demand is the expanding iron ore and manganese mining operations.

Some of the mines that will benefit include Khumani, Sishen Iron Ore (Kumba), Mamatwan, Tshipi é Ntle Manganese, United Manganese of the Kalahari, Kudumane Mineral Resources, Kgalagadi Manganese, Hotazel, Wessels, Gloria, Black Rock and other prospecting mines.