The Western Cape Government has authorised R2,5 million in emergency funding to address critical deficiencies in Knysna’s water infrastructure as the town continues to grapple with water security challenges.
The funds will be used to procure new pump motors for the Charlesford Pump Station, a vital component in the municipality’s ability to transfer raw water from the river to Akkerkloof Dam, which is now barely 20% of capacity. The emergency work is expected to be completed by April.
Anton Bredell, Western Cape Minister for Local Government and Development Planning, said the intervention was necessary to ensure the municipality can capture and store available water when river flows permit.
“This is an immediate and necessary intervention to strengthen Knysna’s water security,” Bredell said. “Even though the Department has put medium- and long-term plans in place to address water sustainability, the current situation requires urgent action.”
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The Charlesford Pump Station plays a critical role in Knysna’s water supply system. When Akkerkloof Dam is full, it provides approximately four months of water supply for the town. However, the municipality’s ability to fill the dam depends on having sufficient pumping capacity when river levels are adequate for abstraction.
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“The reality is that when the river flows, the infrastructure must be ready,” Bredell said. “These new pump motors will ensure that Knysna can pump water efficiently to Akkerkloof Dam and make full use of available water during these critical periods.”
The emergency funding forms part of broader provincial support to stabilise Knysna’s water system. Coordination between the Western Cape Government, Knysna Municipality, the Garden Route District Municipality and national stakeholders is ongoing through established joint operational structures.
Bredell urged residents, businesses and visitors to continue using water responsibly and to comply with all water restrictions currently in place.
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