Human Settlements

[1]  Yes, the water crisis is having an impact on the housing projects as it has a direct impact on the available water that can be used for construction activities. In addition, all contractors and implementing agents now need to manage the water available much more carefully.                                        

My department has also put several measures in place to address the water crisis, depending on the circumstances and the options for alternative (non-potable) water available.

One such case is on the Transhex Housing Project, the contractor Martin and East is sourcing grey water from the dam next to Mountain Mill Mall. This non-potable water will not compromise the quality of the finished product. The testing of water pipes is being done with potable water, but roadworks, for instance, is being done using non-potable water. However, the cost of transporting the non-water may escalate the cost of construction.

[2]  The Breede Valley Municipality has as a rule, restricted the usage of potable water on the Transhex Housing Project.

The usage of both potable and non-potable water is now being recorded, reported and submitted with all monthly payment certificates. Payments of these claims are subject to contractors clearly demonstrating compliance. Water saving is also a standing item on all site meeting agendas, with all contractors being kept aware of their roles and responsibilities in this regard.

 A potable water saving of 5000 kilolitres (5 million litres) has been achieved to date on this project.

[3]  Water saving devices and products such as dual flush cisterns, water efficient diffusers for taps and showers are being provided for on all current projects.

Investigations are currently underway for drilling of boreholes and developing of well points on all departmentally managed projects. To mention a few:  the Southern Corridor, Belhar CBD, Vlakkeland, Transhex, Thembalethu, Syferfontein and Vredebest.  Depending on suitability and the willingness of the municipality to take over the new infrastructure, these boreholes/well points will be transferred to them after the completion of the construction of the houses.

[4]  My department has been pro-active in managing the water crisis by issuing guidelines on water saving measures for all departmentally managed construction projects as well as on human settlements construction projects to all municipalities, after a consultation process with the relevant role players.  For ease of reference, a copy of the guidelines is attached as Annexure A.

In addition to the guidelines mentioned at the start of this response, my department has also made a limited budget available for the use on both the departmentally managed projects, as well as those managed by the municipalities for water saving measures. This budget will cover the additional cost, over and above what the housing subsidy provides for. In addition, my department has compiled a comprehensive Water Business Continuity Plan as a contingency measure should the drought worsen. The Water Business Continuity Plan aims to keep the department largely operational, even if the impacts of the drought worsen.

Guidelines have been issued, as mentioned earlier on water saving measures.

Contractors are utilising every available water source like spring water, grey water, treated effluent, etc. to ensure that the construction on housing projects are not unduly delayed.