The process units need urgent attention to ensure that the plant is fully operational and that effluent complies with the required standards
THE DYSFUNCTIONAL Homevale Waste Water Treatment Works is set for major repairs.
According to the Sol Plaatje Municipality the facility is not functioning in part due to maintenance and operational challenges, including unstable labour relations.
The problem has been exacerbated by cable theft and massive vandalism on site that has left most of the key process units non-functional, which has compromised effluent quality.
The process units need urgent attention to ensure that the plant is fully operational and that effluent complies with the required standards.
The work needed to be done includes the replacement of all stolen cables at the old and new works, the fixing of SCADA (computerised plant operation system) for the new works, electrical and mechanical repairs of several components at both works and the refurbishment of the disinfection system (chlorination).
The spokesperson for Sol Plaatje Municipality, Sello Matsie, said that several criminal cases have been registered with the police to ensure that everyone involved in the theft of cables and electric equipment will face the full consequences of their actions.
“The additional pipeline from Gogga Pump Station is due for connection with the Homevale facility, this will only be operational after the repairs,” said Matsie.
“The current situation will be urgently attended to as our effluent is also used by the mines, which provide employment to locals, and the same water is deposited into Kamfers Dam for the flamingos.”
The municipality further promised to look holistically at several matters such as security upgrades, improved lighting, regular patrols, disciplinary processes where applicable and improved management of the facility in general.
“This will also entail a look at the budget to ensure its sufficient to address all repairs and maintenance requirements, especially for the old plant,” said Matsie.
