Online Reporter
Rutendo Nyeve, Victoria Falls Reporter
THE Victoria Falls City Council has announced that the first phase of its Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (Wash) programme is now 97 percent complete, a significant stride towards resolving water challenges, particularly in the high-density suburbs.
The US$4,8 million project, which began in June 2023, is set to transform water delivery in the resort city, ensuring a consistent supply for residents.
The initiative is a critical part of a broader US$15 million effort aimed at expanding and modernising the city’s Wash infrastructure.
The city council has expressed confidence that the upgrades align with the Government’s expectations for improved urban service delivery.
In an interview with Zimpapers, Victoria Falls Town Clerk, Mr Ronnie Dube, confirmed the project’s impressive progress and its imminent benefits.
“With the reservoir, we have done so well now, we are on schedule.
“The completion is about 97 percent complete. All the major works have been done, the pumps have been installed.
“The other ancillary works related to water reservoirs are complete,” said Mr Dube.
He said key milestones include the successful testing of a reconfigured 12-kilometre pipeline.
This pipeline has been shifted from a direct pumping system to a more efficient and reliable gravity-fed system.
The council has already filled the newly constructed elevated tanks and confirmed they are watertight with no leaks.
Crucially, the project is already operational, with water now being supplied to some residents through gravity from one of the filled tanks.
Mr Dube announced that the official commissioning is expected soon.
“We have done over 7,5 kilometres of reticulation from the pump station.
“So, I think we will be in a position to commission our water reservoirs sometime in October,” he said.
The impact of this project on daily life in Victoria Falls is projected to be profound.
“The net impact of that project is that the greater part of the city will now have water 24 hours a day, and that in the event of any electrical power outage or any fault, we are able to cushion our residents for 48 hours,” he said.
This development is set to eliminate the seasonal water shortages that have plagued the city.
“You will recall that we used to have water challenges during this dry season.
“This project will enable our residents to have water, consistent water supplies throughout, irrespective of the season,” he said.
In a testament to the council’s financial management, the project has been entirely self-funded.
“As a council, we are proud of ourselves because the project is self-funded to the full,” he said.
The near-completion of Phase One marks a watershed moment for Victoria Falls, signaling an end to water woes and paving the way for enhanced public health and improved living standards as the city continues to grow as a premier tourist destination.
