Pretoria - Cabinet has welcomed the launch of Phase 1A of Pongolapoort Bulk Water Supply project, which will bring water to the community of Jozini in KwaZulu-Natal.
The project was unveiled by Water and Sanitation Minister Nomvula Mokonyane together with KwaZulu-Natal Premier Senzo Mchunu, last Friday.
The more than 30-year-old dam, which has been a single-purpose dam for the best part of its life, is now being turned into a multi-purpose dam that will not just carry water through the village, but to far away destinations within the surrounding communities who had previously no access to fresh water.
The Pongolapoort Bulk Water Supply is in Phase 1A of a larger project. It will supply potable water assisted by the installation of bulk water and reticulation networks to 134 864 people within 16 200 households.
Minister Mokonyane said the project is part of government’s demonstration to bring services to the people.
Minister Mokonyane said Phase 1A is part of the steps that will finally ensure that the UMkhanyakude District Municipality, but more especially the Jozini Local Municipality, receives universal coverage.
The project, which is estimated to cost R1.5 billion, has also brought job opportunities to the community. By the end of the 2013/14 financial year, a total of 470 job opportunities had been created. – SAnews.gov.za
