WATER UTILITY, MINING COMPANY PROVIDE REPRIEVE TO FLOODS RAVAGED PHALABORWA

LNW CEO Cornelius Ruiters says the water utility is toiling tirelessly to restore water supply in Phalaborwa.

By: Sekerela Mabeba

Following severe floods in mid-January  that damaged critical infrastructure, Lepelle Northern Water (LNW) says it has worked to restore water supply to Phalaborwa at the beginning of April.

The floods specifically impacted the Phalaborwa Scheme, affecting the bridge, pumps, motors, and a 560mm pipeline.

LNW has coordinated repairs, including plans to appoint contractors for pipeline restoration and engagement with Palabora Mining Company regarding rerouting damaged sections.

 The January floods caused significant damage to the Phalaborwa Scheme, leading to water supply interruptions.

 Efforts have focused on the radial gates, mechanical and electrical components (pumps and motors), and the 560mm pipeline.

 LNW is engaging with the mining company to address and reroute the damaged 560mm pipeline running through their property.

 Residents have expressed frustration over the pace of recovery and have called for clearer target dates and frequent updates.

Meanwhile, Valterra Platinum, together with provincial authorities, have since visited Phalaborwa to provide essential supplies to 754 households affected by the floods.

The floods caused significant devastation, including loss of life, extensive damage to bridges, disruptions to water and electricity supply, and major interruptions to economic activity.

LNW CEO Cornelius Ruiters the water utility’s will toil tirelessly to ensure that the mining town and its communities water sources are restored soon.

“Within this month, we will appoint contractors to fully restore the 560 millimeters pipeline. Our team is working diligently to finalise procurement processes and appoint the necessary service provider. We are also engaging with Phalaborwa Mining Company to address the damaged sections of the pipeline that runs through the property,” he said.

Valterra Platinum’s Executive Head of Corporate Affairs and Sustainability, Yvonne Mfolo joined Limpopo Premier Phophi Ramathuba and MEC for Public Works, Roads and Infrastructure, Ernest Rachoene, to provide essential relief supplies and support to flood victims.

Mfolo emphasised that while material assistance cannot reverse the extent of the damage, the mining company is committed to standing with residents during this difficult period.

“As we present these contributions, we understand they may not solve all your challenges,” she said.

Mofolo also highlighted the critical role of private sector and government collaboration in addressing disasters of this scale.

“As communities, business and government institutions work together, we strengthen our ability to achieve maximum impact.”

A total of 754 households across Mopani district received care packs at the recent outreach initiative. The areas supported included Maruleng, Greater Letaba, Greater Giyani, Tzaneen, and Ba-Phalaborwa

Each care pack was prepared to provide meaningful and practical support to the affected families, and they include essential food, household items, and basic toiletries.