State of major dams and water supply situation as at February 27 2017

State of major dams and water supply situation as at February 27 2017

February 28, 2017 Tsungie Shoriwa

The country’s dams continue to record significant increases as a result of the torrential rains being received across the country. The majority of the major dams monitored by ZINWA are now full and spilling. Major gains have been recorded in dams such as Tokwe-Mukorsi Dam which is now 49% full, Mzingwane Dam which is now full and Inyankuni which is now 74, 5%. As of February 27, the national dam level average stood at 71, 5% up from 65, 5%. The increasing number of spilling dams raises the risk of flooding in areas downstream of such dams. The Zimbabwe National Water Authority (ZINWA) will continue monitoring the situation at all the dams with particular attention being given to dams such as Manyuchi (125%), Ngezi (141, 8%), Makwi (117%), Tokwane (108%) and Amapongokwe (109%). Communities downstream of these dams should exercise extreme caution when crossing rivers and should ensure that all irrigation equipment in the rivers is secured or removed to avoid damage or loss.

Below is the summary of the state of major dams as of February 27, 2017:

Water Supply Situation

The current rains have also severely affected service delivery in a number of places where ZINWA supplies treated water. The flooding being experienced in some parts of the country have resulted in the damage of ZINWA pumping equipment making it impossible for the Authority to provide service. As such the areas are either receiving limited water supplies or receiving no water at all. Areas that have been affected include Chivi, Ngomahuru, Mashava, West Nicholson, Esigodini, Maleme, Antelope, Tsholotsho, Nkayi, Ntabazinduna, Kennilworth and Figtree.

ZINWA making frantic efforts to ensure that the situation is rectified within the shortest possible period. Teams have already been dispatched to carry out repairs of various damaged equipment. The Authority appeals to those receiving water to use the available water sparingly and efficiently.

Clients are also encouraged to contact the ZINWA Call Centre in cases of breakdowns, pipe bursts or when they need assistance.