Drought leaves key African hydro dam less than a third full

A regional drought has reduced water levels at Kariba Dam, the main source of power for Zambia and Zimbabwe, to less than a third of its capacity.

The dam is only 29% full, compared with 88% a year ago and 31% at the start of June, the Zambezi River Authority said in an emailed statement on Tuesday. Zimbabwean Energy Minister Fortune Chasi warned last month that Zimbabwe will suspend electricity production at Kariba in September if current rates of depletion continue.

Engineering News, 18 June 2019

TCTA moves ahead with ZAR12.3bn second phase of Mokolo-Crocodile water scheme

Trans-Caledon Tunnel Authority (TCTA) announced on Wednesday that it had commenced with the implementation of the Mokolo-Crocodile Water Augmentation Project Phase 2A (MCWAP-2A) project, which is strongly associated with minerals and energy projects in the Limpopo province and is, thus, facing opposition from environmental justice groups.

The estimated capital cost of the MCWAP-2A project is ZAR12.3 billion, in April 2018 prices, and the scheme is scheduled for completion in May 2026.

Engineering News, 19 June 2019

Investments bring efficient water supply to Liberian communities

Newly approved financial aid will enable increased access to piped water supply services in Monrovia and surrounding areas, and improve the operational efficiency of Liberia Water and Sewer Corporation (LWSC).

The finance was approved by the World Bank Board of Executive Directors, endorsing an additional financing of US$24.74 million International Development Association (IDA) credit and US$5.26 million IDA grant.

Engineering News, 20 June 2019

Johannesburg water shutdown: Contingency measures in place

Environment and Infrastructure Services Department on Friday assured residents that during 54-hour Rand Water maintenance shutdown water supplies will be available, but some areas may experience low pressure.

The City of Johannesburg said Rand Water, which supplies water to Johannesburg, will shut off its water supply to allow for a valve to be replaced. The maintenance work is expected to last for 54 hours.

Engineering News, 21 June 2019

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