07-08-2025
Deadline looms for public input on Cwabeni bulk water upgrade
The public has until Friday, August 8 to comment on the proposed Umzimkhulu Estuary Weir.
A key component of the Ugu District Municipality's R1.2b Climate Resilient Cwabeni Bulk Water Upgrade Project, it's aimed at securing water supply for the greater Port Shepstone area until 2052.
The weir is part of a broader national Department of Water and Sanitation initiative and is expected to deliver an additional 24 megalitres of water daily, protect the estuary from saltwater intrusion, and support its ecological health.
Comments must be submitted in writing to Donavan Henning at [email protected].
The full project includes:
• A new climate-resilient river abstraction weir
• A 15 million m³ off-channel storage dam at Cwabeni (35km upstream)
• A 700mm steel pipeline linking to the Boboyi waterworks, which will supply potable water to 25 wards in Ray Nkonyeni and Umzumbe municipalities
According to ENsync Engineers' Rowen Clark, the upgraded system will ensure 98% domestic water security, even under extreme drought conditions, while maintaining estuarine flow.
However, some community members have raised concerns about Ugu's capacity to manage such a major project, citing existing infrastructure challenges.
Construction is due to begin this year and may take up to three years.
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