Online Reporter
Conrad Mupesa
Mashonaland West Bureau
CHEGUTU Town Council has intensified efforts to overhaul its ageing sewer reticulation system to curb recurring outbreaks of water-borne diseases, including cholera, which has severely affected the town in recent years.
The local authority has already set aside funding for a rehabilitation programme that will see old and dilapidated sewer pipes replaced across the town.
Chegutu Mayor Councillor Rydes Machekera confirmed the development.
“At the moment, council is in the process of procuring new sewer pipes because the existing infrastructure is old and dilapidated,” he said.
“We are also facing challenges of overpopulation in areas that were originally designed for fewer residents, which means there is now greater pressure on the sewer system. More pipes are therefore required to cater for the growing demand.”
Clr Machekera said much of the existing sewer network consists of ageing asbestos and steel pipes that have become increasingly vulnerable to damage caused by tree roots, soil movement and corrosion.
“Many of the pipes are asbestos pipes, which are easily affected by roots and soil movement, while others are steel pipes that are now badly worn out,” he said.
“We now want to replace them with modern polythene pipes as part of the refurbishment of the sewer network.”
Chegutu was among the towns hardest hit during the 2023 cholera outbreak, which infected at least 570 people and claimed nine lives.
Authorities believe the sewer rehabilitation programme will significantly improve sanitation and reduce the risk of future disease outbreaks.
Zimbabwe National Organisation of Associations of Residents Trusts provincial chairperson Mr Liberty Chitiya welcomed the initiative, saying it would complement Government efforts to improve public health and service delivery.
“This development will go a long way in protecting residents from water-borne diseases,” he said.
“While we commend the council for taking this step, we also hope the programme will improve water availability and overall service delivery in the town.”
Chegutu is currently pumping about eight megalitres of water per day against a daily demand of 16 megalitres, resulting in persistent water shortages in several suburbs.
Council has also indicated that it is exploring a public-private partnership to overhaul the town’s water reticulation system and introduce smart water metering to improve efficiency and reduce water losses.
