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Speaking at the opening plenary of the Green Building Convention 2023, the Mayor for the City of Cape Town in South Africa, Geordin Hill-Lewis, detailed the steps being taken by the City to ensure improved water infrastructure.
While presenting his opening remarks, Hill-Lewis emphasised the need for "smart and large investment in infrastructure" to better position the city. "Any decision in investment is a bet on the future," he said.
Given that South Africa has been dealing with the effects of global warming and climate change, time is of the essence to address the energy and water crisis facing the country. As the most populous city in South Africa, Cape Town has been presented with an opportunity for growth, innovation and investment, Hill-Lewis said.
Current infrastructure development plans in Cape Town
The City has also launched its R120 billion infrastructure portfolio for economic growth. Around 38% (approximately R45 billion) of the portfolio is aimed at addressing water infrastructure and wastewater infrastructure which have been particularly under strained amid loadshedding.
This is inclusive of refurbishing wastewater infrastructure and capacity upgrades and reftirbishments in Athlone, Bellville, Cape Flats and Potsdam, among others.
More than R360 million is also intended to upgrade sewer pump stations and sewer pipes. The city also intends to upgrade bulk sewers in the Cape Flats, Philippi, Milnerton and Gordons Bay to tackle sewer spills.
The City also intends to develop a process and write building codes for sustainable building methods in South Africa. It will make this process available for public comment in the coming months. Ultimately it wants to develop this code to ensure sustainable and efficient infrastructure in the long term. ESI |
