eThekwini Advances Major Water Projects to Secure Future Supply

Mayor Cyril Xaba said the municipality has already seen encouraging improvements through recent investments in critical infrastructure.

The eThekwini Metropolitan Municipality is moving ahead with major water infrastructure projects designed to improve water security, strengthen supply networks and support growing demand across Durban and surrounding communities. One of the largest projects underway is the Lower uMkhomazi Bulk Water Supply Scheme, which has entered its second phase with an investment of R11 billion.

Once completed, the scheme will produce 100 megalitres of water each day, with 75 megalitres allocated to eThekwini. This additional supply will serve communities stretching from Isipingo to uMkhomazi, while existing water resources currently directed to these areas can be redistributed to northern, central and outer western parts of the municipality. The project includes a modern water treatment plant, new gravity pipelines and expanded reservoir infrastructure that will strengthen the city's long-term water resilience.

Major Upgrades Already Delivering Results

Mayor Cyril Xaba said the municipality has already seen encouraging improvements through recent investments in critical infrastructure. For the first time in five years, all bulk water reservoirs remained stable throughout the festive season, allowing residents in northern, southern and central areas to enjoy uninterrupted water supply.

These improvements have been supported by projects such as the Northern Aqueduct and the refurbishment of the Ntuzuma Pump Station, both of which have played an important role in stabilising supply to communities that previously experienced frequent disruptions.

The Presidential eThekwini Working Group has also helped accelerate infrastructure delivery by bringing together national, provincial and local government structures to coordinate solutions for service delivery challenges and monitor project progress.

Southern Aqueduct Upgrade Nears Completion

Another key project nearing completion is the Southern Aqueduct upgrade, valued at R1.2 billion. The project involves replacing a 70-year-old concrete pipeline with a larger steel pipeline capable of delivering more water efficiently across the network. Once complete, the upgraded system will benefit around 1.2 million residents and support 33 reservoirs serving Durban's southern communities.

Several sections of the project have already been completed and commissioned. A newly operational four-kilometre steel pipeline now connects major reservoirs in Westcliff, Chatsworth and Umlazi, improving water distribution across these areas. Additional construction work continues in Westville and other parts of the network, despite delays caused by underground fibre and electrical infrastructure.

Municipal officials remain confident that the Southern Aqueduct project will be completed by December 2026. Together with the Lower uMkhomazi scheme, the investment is expected to transform water supply reliability, reduce losses within the network and provide lasting relief to communities that have faced water shortages in recent years.