GRAAFF-REINET NEWS - In his newsletter, From the Mayor's Desk, dated 19 July, the mayor of Dr Beyers Naudé Municipality, Willem Safers, highlighted the completion of the water treatment plant refurbishment project that was undertaken to improve the quality of water.

The municipality initiated plans for the refurbishment of the Graaff-Reinet drinking water treatment plant after the severe drought that persisted in the region since 2012 led to the Nqweba Dam running dry in 2019, leaving communities totally dependent on underground water.

The approval of the comprehensive business plans that were developed and submitted to the Department of Water and Sanitation provided the necessary funding for the commencement of the refurbishment project.

The purpose of the refurbishment project was to address mechanical, electrical, and civil issues at the drinking water treatment plant.

Key components

1. the refurbishment of the inlet channel and telemetry to optimise the intake of raw water into the treatment process, thereby ensuring sufficient and reliable water supply to the plant,
2. the refurbishment of the clarifiers to enhance the setting and separation of suspended solids from the water, thereby improving the overall treatment efficiency,
3. the refurbishment of sand filtration systems essential for removing particles and impurities from the water, thereby contributing to an enhanced water quality output,
4. the refurbishment of the disinfection and chlorination systems to ensure that the treated water meets the required SANS 241 safety and quality standards for public consumption,
5. the refurbishment of the main pump station, blower and clear well to improve the overall operational efficiency and reliability of the water treatment process,
6. the refurbishment of the existing buildings and infrastructure to ensure a conducive and safe working environment for plant personnel, thereby contributing to the overall effectiveness of the treatment operations.

In addition to the above, the project also included the enhancement of the safety and security systems within the plant to ensure the safety of personnel and the protection of assets.

Safers says the completion of this project significantly enhanced the operational capacity and resilience of the treatment plant.

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