The City of Cape Town’s Water and Sanitation Directorate has set aside R836.6 million for infrastructure maintenance and pipe replacements for the 2023/24 financial year, as part of the Mayor’s Priority Programme (MPP).
This comes as the directorate announced on Monday that it is preparing the rollout of phase three of a 1 300-metre water pipe replacement project in Plumstead.
Also read: Planned water supply maintenance in Claremont and Newlands this week
With the use of cutting-edge trenchless pipe cracking technology, the City’s MMC for Water and Sanitation, Zahid Badroodien, said the directorate will be replacing the 50-year-old ageing fibre cement pipes with high-density polyethylene (HDPE) pipes, which would be used throughout Cape Town.
Phase one of the project, which involved replacing the water pipes on St Joans Road, was completed in November and Phase two, which saw the pipes on Gray Road replaced, was completed in December.
Phase three will be conducted in Adelaide and Rivers End Rods and is anticipated to start in mid-January this year.
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Badroodien explained that the use of trenchless pipe cracking technology has proven to be a less expensive option as fewer excavations are needed. It also ensures less disruption and a quicker completion time.
According to the City, other options include:
- Lower restoration costs: Because there is less excavation, there are fewer expenses involved in repairing roads, sidewalks and landscapes.
- Less labour-intensive: Requires fewer workers than conventional open-cut techniques.
- Reduced environmental disturbance: Helps preserve ecosystems, landscapes and trees.
- Less material usage: The procedure frequently uses less material, which promotes sustainability.
- Durable materials: HDPE is a common material used to make replacement pipes since it resists corrosion and lasts longer, meaning fewer replacements are needed over time.
- Applicable in various conditions: They can be employed in a variety of soil and environmental conditions, making them versatile for different projects.
- Reduced disturbances for residents: Reduced noise, dust and disruption.
- Fewer safety hazards: With less open excavation, the risk of accidents and injuries is reduced, enhancing overall project safety.
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Picture: City of Cape Town / Facebook