EThekwini unveils R43M reservoir in Tongaat

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11-12-2023
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Amid frequent water interruptions and public outcry over dry taps, eThekwini Municipality has unveiled a R43million Emona Water Reservoir on Sunday, 3 December.

The newly constructed eMona Reservoir was launched as part of the municipality’s ongoing intervention programmes to accelerate water supply to Emona, Tongaat, and surrounding areas in wards 61 and 62. The reservoir has a storage capacity of five megalitres.

EThekwini mayor, Councillor Mxolisi Kaunda said this was part of the city’s ongoing efforts to upgrade ailing water infrastructure. “In the current financial year, the city has allocated R2.1billion to upgrade water and sanitation infrastructure,” said Kaunda.

The construction of the water treatment plant followed after it was severely damaged during the April and May floods last year. The repairs to the damaged infrastructure were completed in December last year and thereafter residents started receiving potable water from their taps.

Ward 62 Councillor, Thobekani Nene said the newly constructed water treatment plant will increase water capacity to the drought-stricken communities of Tongaat.

“The reservoir will help aid the alleviation of water cuts in Tongaat and surrounding areas. We welcome the initiative by the eThekwini Municipality, however, we appeal to the officials to ensure that the oThongathi Water Treatment Plant supplies water directly to Emona Reservoir to avoid further delays in the water supply. Our ageing infrastructure has an impact on the shortage of water in local areas,” said Cllr Nene.

Ward 61 Councillor Dolly Munien said: “I am glad that the mayor came through to unveil the reservoir and to answer the questions from frustrated members of the public. Residents had an opportunity to ask him questions during the question-answer session. It was a very fruitful engagement between residents, officials and the mayor,” she said.

During the unveiling, Kaunda introduced the contractor for the Motala Farm Housing project in the area, which will yield 2200 housing units. Currently, the municipality is placing bulk infrastructure onsite, including an R63 million bus route.

Zinhle Zikala from Emona said she is grateful to the city for hearing their cries. “It is about time that somebody heard our pleas for water. Hopefully with the reservoir serving Emona will now have water running water in our homes.”