City pipeline repaired

REPAIRS to the water pipeline between Riverton and Kimberley were completed over the weekend without any major hiccups, with nine leaks being repaired.

Sol Plaatje Municipality spokesperson Sello Matsie said the repairs were mostly effected on schedule.

The water supply was restored late on Friday, although high-lying areas only had access to water on Saturday.

Kimberley North residents complained yesterday of having no water due to a burst pipe in the area.

Matsie said that the electric current next to the railway line was negatively affecting the pipeline.

“We will have to apply the cathodic protection, which is the protection of a metal structure from corrosion under water by making it act as an electrical cathode.”

He added that holes were deliberately punched in the pipeline by emerging farmers in the area to provide water for their livestock.

“This is done mainly around the valve chambers on the pipeline. We will be meeting with them to explain the seriousness of their actions and provide more security measures to the chambers so that it’s not easily accessible. As a last resort, we will lay criminal charges for destruction of municipal infrastructure against those involved.”

Matsie explained that it took a few hours to empty the pipeline and reticulation network as well as to build sufficient pressure when the water supply was restored.

“As we approach the next shutdown for the connection of the new pump station to start operating in Riverton, we should all bear in mind that patience will be key because it is something that we cannot avoid.”