New pipework and pumps at the Taljaard pump station in Standerton have eliminated wastewater spills and blockages
Mpumalanga-based Lubisi Consulting Engineers has officially handed over the upgraded Taljaard Sewer Pumpstations to Lekwa Local Municipality, marking a significant milestone for Standerton towards safe, compliant water and wastewater services.
The urgent need to upgrade the town’s wastewater infrastructure was necessitated by critical findings in the Department of Water and Sanitation (DWS) Green Drop Report for 2022, which revealed that the Standerton Wastewater Treatment Works was operating at an unsustainable 164% overcapacity.
Furthermore, the works was found to have a Green Drop compliance score of only 17%, classifying it within the ‘critical risk category’. Over several years, this resulted in untreated sewage spilling into the environment and directly into the Vaal River – the primary water supply for millions of people, including the Gauteng population.
Starting on this project in 2023, Lubisi Consulting Engineers conducted a full technical assessment and replaced ruptured, aged pipelines across Standerton’s internal reticulation network; installed new electrical equipment, robust mechanical pumps, and standby power generators (75 kVA) at key pumpstations; rebuilt the Taljaard guardhouse, perimeter fence and lighting to prevent vandalism and protect staff safety, as well as trained municipal operators and introduce best-practice operation and maintenance protocols, ensuring future-proofed performance and skilled local employment opportunities.
“We knew from the outset that this project went far beyond infrastructure upgrades,” says Chalmers Pagiwa, Managing Director of Lubisi Consulting Engineers. “Our task was to restore dignity, ensure environmental justice for the Vaal River, and help Standerton’s economy to grow again by bringing critical services up to standard. Seeing clean water and secure sewer networks in the community is why we take pride in our profession.”
New pipework and pumps have eliminated routine spills and blockages, vastly reducing the risk of waterborne disease and environmental harm, while continuous operator training ensured that upgraded facilities stay reliable for years to come.
“Reliable bulk wastewater and water systems are the backbone of any thriving town. By solving Standerton’s systemic water challenges, the barriers to investment, tourism and business growth have been removed,” adds Pagiwa. “This work also safeguards agricultural productivity, jobs in guest farms, and the wider appeal of this important regional centre.”
Lubisi Consulting Engineers worked closely with the Lekwa Local Municipality, local maintenance staff, and Gert Sibande officials throughout the project’s planning, construction, and handover phases.
“With this strategic upgrade, Standerton can now welcome new development and investment with confidence. We extend our thanks to municipal partners and residents for their support during this essential work,” says Pagiwa.
Now fully operational, the improved system allows Standerton to proactively manage future demand as the population grows – enabling timely approvals of new housing and commercial development, curbing pollution, and ensuring legal compliance.
“As a South African company rooted in community service, we look forward to supporting other municipalities as they tackle water and sanitation challenges,” concludes Pagiwa.
Source: SWM Communications
