Two years after the initial report, the damaged sluice gate at Ntshingwayo (Chelmsford) Dam remains unrepaired, with the Department of Water and Sanitation (DWS) acknowledging ongoing challenges in resolving the issue.
The matter was first brought to the public’s attention on 20 January 2022, after Newcastillian News highlighted concerns about significant water loss due to the damaged sluice gate.
At that time, the DWS assured the public that its Infrastructure Management team was actively working on repairing the gate.
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However, progress has been sluggish, and several delays have impeded the completion of the repair work. Disputes between the main contractor and sub-contractor, particularly regarding non-payment, were identified as one of the hindrances.
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Despite the setbacks, on 27 November 2023, the DWS optimistically announced that the repair work was nearing completion.
DWS spokesperson Mavasa Wisane confirmed that the gate’s manufacturing had been finished, and it was undergoing corrosion protection. Initial expectations for the corrosion protection were set to conclude on, or before 1 December 2023. Additionally, Wisane mentioned that the gate’s installation would be confirmed in the final week of November 2023.
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However, despite all of this, as of now, the gate’s repair work remains incomplete.
Addressing the most recent media inquiry from Newcastillian News, Wisane explained, “The manufacturing of the gate could not be completed due to inclement weather the region has been experiencing since the beginning of the season. Currently, the gate is undergoing corrosion protection and painting, and will require drying prior to installation.”
Attributing the weather related setback to the current status of the project, Wisane informed that the Department anticipates the gate’s delivery from the manufacturer on, or before 28 February 2024.
She added, “The contractor has indicated that the installation and the commissioning of the gate will be completed on or before the first week of March 2024.”
With the finalisation of the repair work now projected for March 2024, the prolonged delay continues to raise concerns.
With all the above in mind, readers are encouraged to share their thoughts on this persistent issue in the comment section below.
