Bulawayo Mayor, Councillor David Coltart, has highlighted the urgent need for financial resources to address the city’s ongoing water crisis. According to Coltart, the city council must raise $150 million to construct the Glass Block Dam and upgrade water pumps, essential steps towards alleviating Bulawayo’s perennial water challenges.
A team of engineers has proposed the construction of the Glass Block Dam in Filabusi, which is projected to fulfill 70% of Bulawayo’s water requirements, as reported by CITE.
Expressing gratitude for the consensus reached between the central government and local authorities regarding the construction of the Glass Block Dam, Coltart emphasized the necessity of securing funding for the project.
He stated, “We need to raise $150 million to build the Glass Block Dam and establish a pipeline to rehabilitate the Ncema pump station, along with expanding the Tuli reservoir on the city’s outskirts.
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These are critical water infrastructure needs that require our immediate attention.”
In addition to the long-term solutions, Coltart highlighted the pressing need for $14 million to address short-term water issues faced by the city.
Furthermore, Coltart brought attention to the deteriorating state of Bulawayo’s sewerage systems, which are currently functioning at only 20% efficiency. He expressed concern over the health and safety implications for residents, particularly noting instances of raw sewage affecting residential areas, schools, and clinics.
Acknowledging the severity of the situation, Mayor David Coltart reassured the community that efforts are underway to collaborate with private companies and other stakeholders to invest in the rehabilitation of the city’s sewerage infrastructure, aiming to mitigate the current challenges and improve public health standards.
