Western Cape Department of Agriculture to resolve water crisis in Clanwilliam

Oscar Thomas
30 January 2015

The Western Cape Department of Agriculture has made a R1 million temporary solution into the collapsed canal in Clanwilliam. 

MEC of Economic Opportunities Alan Winde said one of the canals running off the Clanwilliam dam collapsed at the start of this month, affecting more than 300 farmers in nearby communities.

Ministerial Spokesperson Bronwynne Jooste said the R1 million emergency fund will ensure that water is pumped across the damaged section. 

Jooste said it is a 184m section of the canal near Klawer.

Jooste said the break dramatically reduced water supply to farms downstream. More than 300 farmers, 6 000 hectares of irrigation and residents in nearby communities were affected.

Jooste said this presented a huge threat to the farmers working with table and wine grapes as well as vegetables. It also threatened seasonal jobs for local residents.

Jooste said a plan to fix the canal will need to follow. This is the actually responsibility of the National Department of Water and Sanitation.

Jooste said with the costs of repairing the aging infrastructure adding up, this association did not have the funds to purchase the additional pumps and generator.

“MEC Winde will meet with the local association to discuss the way forward Jooste added.