Bulawayo City Council is considering using 2,000-meter drilling rigs to access water from the aquifer beneath the city, as the water crisis worsens.
Mayor David Coltart noted, “We need to tap into this aquifer to alleviate the water crisis.”
Councillors expressed concerns about the deteriorating water situation, with supply dams nearing decommissioning and issues like evaporation losses and leaks in the water reticulation system.
“Illegal mining activities along the riverbed have exposed the Insiza pipeline, increasing the risk of further damage,” said one councillor.
The need for extensive research into underground water sources and effective strategies for managing water resources was emphasized.
Mayor Coltart acknowledged the council’s efforts to investigate borehole drilling technologies, but also pointed out the negative impact of illegal gold panning on water quality.
Residents are calling for clear timelines and actionable plans to improve water service delivery, as the city faces significant challenges in managing its water resources.
“We need sustainable solutions to this escalating water crisis,” said a resident.
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