The ManicaPost
Lovemore Kadzura
Rusape Correspondent
RUSAPE Town Council has turned to solar powered boreholes as solution to the crippling water challenges that have been bedevilling the town since the turn of the new millennium.
Water challenges in Rusape are attributed to the growing population, resulting in the town’s two water works failing to cope with the ever increasing demand of the precious liquid for both human and commercial needs.
The US$25 000 solar powered piped water scheme is being funded by UNICEF, while Mercy Corps is the implementing agency.
The project is covering wards one and four which were going for a week with dry taps.
Acting Town Secretary, Engineer Charles Chindenga said the borehole water scheme will go a long way in alleviating the water challenges.
He also assured residents that the water is safe for drinking as it is constantly monitored by experts.
“As a way of mitigating the water challenges, we partnered with UNICEF and Mercy Corps to set up a solar powered water scheme. This water will benefit thousands of residents. Our aim is to set up similar projects in all areas having water challenges,” said Eng Chindenga.
Rusape has two water works which produce a combined average of 10 mega-litres a day against a demand of 14,5 mega-litres.
This means there is a daily shortfall of 4,5 mega-litres.
To compound the situation, non-revenue water currently stands at an estimated 45 percent against a benchmark of 25 percent.
Non-revenue water is water that is lost through leakages along the distribution network and it is unbilled.
The constant breakdown at the water works and leakages along the distribution network is attributed to ageing and antiquated equipment. The two water works have a combined age of 111 years.
The town water works supplies areas that were set up before independence, Central Business District and old industrial areas.
It also pumps water directly to consumers without going through reservoirs. Despite its age, it is the most reliable.
Jack Needham Water Works which has a capacity of 6,3 mega-litres per day abstracts its water from Rusape Dam. The plant was constructed and commissioned in 1972 and it feeds two water supply reservoirs in Mabvazuva and Tsanzaguru.
Residents said the town population has grown exponentially and the water reticulation and distribution system has to be upgraded.
In 1972, the town’s population was below 10 000 and now it is estimated to be around 50 000.
Rusape Concerned Residents Trust executive member, Mr Philip Mavhuna said council must seriously consider constructing new water works to cater for the growing population.
“The population is ever growing and demand for water is very high, but council has been found wanting. The water works and distribution pipe are now overwhelmed by demand. As part of urban renewal and regeneration, council must prioritise water and sanitation issues. They should work hand in glove with Government and private players for this to happen,” said Mr Mavhuna.
Eng Chindenga said they have expansion plans for the water plants, but they are being hampered by financial constraints.
“The two treatment plants are now operating at the threshold of their design capacities. There is need to start looking at effective ways to provide adequate water treatment and supply infrastructure.
“Council has made sure that the expansion of water works is incorporated in its current strategic plan and also made budget provisions to start actively looking into the matter. However, budget performance requires the active participation of all ratepayers so that this critical matter will not be pushed into the next budget due to lack of funding,” said Eng Chindenga.
