PROPOSED UPGRADING OF THE HILLVIEW SEWER RISING MAIN … · Table 6 Sample types being monitored by...

CITY OF MHLATHUZE MUNICIPALITY

INTEGRATED WATER AND WASTE MANAGEMENT PLAN

PROPOSED UPGRADING OF THE HILLVIEW SEWER RISING MAIN AND SOUTHERN OUTFALL BULK SEWER

PIPELINE IN EMPANGENI, CITY OF UMHLATHUZE MUNICIPALITY, KWAZULU-NATAL

WATER USE LICENCE APPLICATION

Prepared for: Prepared by:

City of uMhlathuze Municipality ACER (Africa) Environmental Consultants

Private Bag X1004 PO Box 503

Richards Bay Mtunzini

3900 3867

February 2017

CITY OF UMHLATHUZE MUNICIPALITY

UPGRADING OF THE HILLVIEW SEWER RISING MAIN AND SOUTHERN OUTFALL BULK SEWER PIPELINE IN EMPANGENI WATER USE LICENCE APPLICATION – INTEGRATED WATER AND WASTE MANAGEMENT PLAN

ii

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

PURPOSE OF THE IWWMP

In terms of Chapter 4 of the National Water Act, 1998 (Act No 36 of 1998) (NWA), the City of

uMhlathuze is required to apply for water uses in terms of Section 21 of the NWA for construction

activities associated with the upgrading of the Hillview rising main and southern bulk outfall sewer

pipelines, in Empangeni. The existing rising gravity main pipelines are old and operating beyond

capacity resulting in frequent localized sewage overflows and spills.

NEW WATER USES

This application is for the authorisation of water uses in terms of section 21 (c) and (i), required for the

upgrading of the Southern Outfall Sewer System, which will require activities through and within 500m

of a number of wetlands and the Mpangeni River. The water uses below are applicable for the Water

Use Authorisation.

21 (c) impeding or diverting the flow of water in a watercourse:

For construction activities which will take place through parts of and within 500 m of Wetlands

1, 2, 3, 4, 5 and 10 and across the Mpangeni River.

21 (i) altering the bed, banks, course or characteristics of a watercourse;

For construction activities which will take place through parts of and within 500 m of Wetlands

1, 2, 3, 4, 5 and 10 and across the Mpangeni River.

PROJECT MOTIVATION

The proposed upgrade of the Southern Outfall Sewer System in Empangeni is viewed as a necessity.

At present, the existing rising main and the gravity outfall pipelines are old and operating beyond

capacity. As a result, the system is subject to frequent localized sewage overflows and spills, which

left as is, will lead to environmental, public health and safety hazards.

Given the current and planned future development within this area of Empangeni, and the expected

resultant increase in sewerage output, the overflow and spills are expected to become more frequent

and severe. The City of uMhlathuze has, therefore, seen it essential to install an entirely new rising

main and gravity main pipelines of a suitable size to cope with the current and future planned sewer

volumes.

IDENTIFICATION OF IMPACTS

The proposed development is an upgrade of existing infrastructure, taking place, for the most part,

within an existing servitude; therefore negative impacts of high significance are not anticipated.

However, the pipeline does for the most part fall within wetlands and riparian areas on its journey from

the Hillview Pump Station to the Empangeni Waste Water Treatment Works. Therefore potential

impacts will include the disturbance and loss of indigenous vegetation and wetland habitats,

increased surface runoff and the potential pollution of surface and ground water. The loss of

vegetative cover could encourage alien invasive plant species to spread, increase soil erosion,

contaminate and ultimately change the hydrology and resultant diversity of the wetland environments.

These impacts will need to be mitigated and managed, to minimise their long term affect on the

natural environment.

CONCLUSION

The City of uMhlathuze Municipality undertakes to comply with the relevant legislation applicable to

the project, in particular the NWA and applicable Regulations of this Act, as well as the project

Environmental Management Programme (EMPr) and recommendations contained within this

Integrated Water and Waste Management Plan. The Environmental Assessment Practitioner

therefore recommends approval of the proposed project, on condition that all applicable commitments

are adhered to.



iii

ABBREVIATIONS AND ACRONYMS

ACER ACER (Africa) Environmental Consultants

Amafa Amafa aKwaZulu-Natali

BA Basic Assessment

DEDTEA Department of Economic Development, Tourism and Environmental Affairs

DAFF Department of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries

DOT Department of Transport

DWS Department of Water and Sanitation

EA Environmental Authorisation

ECO Environmental Control Officer

EIA Environmental Impact Assessment

EIS Ecological Importance and Sensitivity

EMPr Environmental Management Programme

EKZNW Ezemvelo KwaZulu-Natal Wildlife

HDPE High Density Polyethylene

I&APs Interested and Affected Parties

IDP Integrated Development Plan

IWULA Integrated Water Use Licence Application

IWWMP Integrated Water and Waste Management Plan

KZN KwaZulu-Natal

NEMA National Environmental Management Act

NEMWA National Environmental Management Waste Act

NFA National Forests Act

NWA National Water Act

PES Present Ecological State

PPP Public Participation Process

RE Resident Engineer

SWMP Storm Water Management Plan

WQMP Water Quality Monitoring Program

WULA Water Use Licence Application

WUL Water Use Licence

WWTW Waste Water Treatment Works



iv

TABLE OF CONTENTS

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY ........................................................................................................................ ii ABBREVIATIONS AND ACRONYMS .....................................................................................................iii TABLE OF CONTENTS ......................................................................................................................... iv LIST OF FIGURES ................................................................................................................................. vi LIST OF TABLES ................................................................................................................................... vi 1. INTRODUCTION .......................................................................................................................... 7

1.1 Activity background ............................................................................................................ 7 1.2 Contact Details ................................................................................................................. 10 1.3 Regional setting and location of activity ........................................................................... 10 1.4 Property description .......................................................................................................... 10 1.5 Purpose of the IWWMP .................................................................................................... 11

2. CONTEXTUALISATION OF THE ACTIVITY .............................................................................. 12 2.1 Description of activity ........................................................................................................ 12 2.2 Extent of the activity ......................................................................................................... 13 2.3 Key activity related processes and products .................................................................... 13 2.4 Activity life description ...................................................................................................... 14 2.5 Activity infrastructure description ...................................................................................... 15 2.6 Key water uses and waste streams .................................................................................. 16 2.7 Organisational structure of activity / company .................................................................. 20 2.8 Business and corporate policies related to the environment ............................................ 21

3. REGULATORY WATER AND WASTE MANAGEMENT FRAMEWORK ................................... 22 3.1 Summary of all water uses ............................................................................................... 22 3.2 Existing lawful water uses ................................................................................................ 25 3.3 Relevant exemptions ........................................................................................................ 25 3.4 Generally authorised water uses ...................................................................................... 25 3.5 New water uses to be authorised ..................................................................................... 26 3.6 Waste management activities (NEMWA) ......................................................................... 29 3.7 Waste related authorisations ............................................................................................ 29 3.8 Other authorisations (EIAs, EMPrs, EAs, Regulations) ................................................... 29

4. PRESENT ENVIRONMENTAL SITUATION............................................................................... 30 4.1 Climate .............................................................................................................................. 30 4.2 Surface water .................................................................................................................... 31 4.3 Socio-economic environment ........................................................................................... 33

5. ANALYSIS AND CHARACTERISATION OF ACTIVITY ............................................................ 35 5.1 Site delineation for characterisation ................................................................................. 35 5.2 Storm water (clean and dirty water management) ........................................................... 36 5.4 Monitoring and Control ..................................................................................................... 41 5.5 Risk Assessment / Best Practice Assessment ................................................................. 43 5.6 Issues and responses from public consultation process .................................................. 45 5.7 Matters requiring attention / problem statement ............................................................... 46 5.8 Assessment of level of confidence of information ............................................................ 46

6. WATER AND WASTE MANAGEMENT ...................................................................................... 47 6.1 Water and Waste Management Philosophy ..................................................................... 47 6.2 Options Analyses and motivation for implementation of preferred option ........................ 47 6.3 IWWMP Action Plan (Priority Actions) .............................................................................. 48 6.4 Control and Monitoring ..................................................................................................... 51

7. CONCLUSION ............................................................................................................................ 54 7.1 Regulatory status of activity .............................................................................................. 54 7.2 Statement on water uses requiring authorisation, dispensing with licensing requirement

and possible exemption from regulations ......................................................................... 54 7.3 Motivation in terms of section 27(1) of the NWA .............................................................. 54



v

7.4 Key Commitments ............................................................................................................ 57 8. REFERENCES ........................................................................................................................... 58 9. LIST OF APPENDICES .............................................................................................................. 59

Appendix 1 – Applicants Company Registration Certificate ....................................................... 59 Appendix 2 – Property Title Deeds ............................................................................................. 59 Appendix 3 – Lease Agreements (N/A) ...................................................................................... 59 Appendix 4 – Property Zoning Documents ................................................................................. 59 Appendix 5 – Land Claims Clearance Letter .............................................................................. 59 Appendix 6 – BBEEE Certificate ................................................................................................. 59 Appendix 7 – DWS Application Forms........................................................................................ 59 Appendix 8 – Site Plans and Maps ............................................................................................. 59 Appendix 9 – Master Layout Plan ............................................................................................... 59 Appendix 10 – Alternatives Report ............................................................................................. 59 Appendix 11 – Basic Assessment Report................................................................................... 59 Appendix 12 – Environmental Authorisation ............................................................................... 59 Appendix 13 – Environmental Management Programme ........................................................... 59 Appendix 14 – Wetland Studies .................................................................................................. 59 Appendix 15 – Geotechnical Report ........................................................................................... 59 Appendix 16 – Aquatic Ecology Report ...................................................................................... 59 Appendix 17 – Geohydrological Studies (N/A) ........................................................................... 59 Appendix 18 – Hydrological Studies ........................................................................................... 59 Appendix 19 – Water Balance (N/A) ........................................................................................... 59 Appendix 20 – Construction Methodology .................................................................................. 59 Appendix 21 – Storm Water Management Plan ......................................................................... 59 Appendix 22 – Civil Designs and Materials Test Report ............................................................ 59 Appendix 23 – Contingency Plans .............................................................................................. 59 Appendix 24 – Monitoring Programme ....................................................................................... 59 Appendix 25 – Financial Provision .............................................................................................. 59



vi

LIST OF FIGURES

Figure 1 General locality of Southern Outfall Sewer ........................................................................ 7 Figure 2 New servitude to be created on the east of MR230 to avoid residential properties through

which the existing rising main runs in a 3 m servitude ....................................................... 9 Figure 3 Gravity main realigned west of the existing servitude to significantly reduce the amount of

pipeline above ground, and bring it outside property boundaries ...................................... 9 Figure 4 New gravity main realigned to bring it outside the property boundaries along Sigma

Crescent ............................................................................................................................. 9 Figure 5 Google Earth aerial photo series showing wetlands and riparian areas found within the

area of interest (1 of 3) ..................................................................................................... 17 Figure 6 Google Earth aerial photo series showing wetlands and riparian areas found within the

area of interest (2 of 3) ..................................................................................................... 18 Figure 7 Google Earth aerial photo series showing wetlands and riparian areas found within the

area of interest (3 of 3) ..................................................................................................... 19 Figure 8 Pipe crossing a steep embankment ................................................................................. 38 Figure 9 Pipe crossing minor drainage line or erosion gully ........................................................... 38 Figure 10 Moderate to steep sloping land causing runoff erosion hazard ........................................ 38 Figure 11 Waste Management Hierarchy ......................................................................................... 39

LIST OF TABLES

Table 1 Properties on which water uses associated with the upgrade of the Southern Outfall

Sewer will be registered ................................................................................................... 11 Table 2 List of applicable water uses to be authorised for the upgrading of the Southern Outfall

Sewer ................................................................................................................................ 26 Table 3 Listed Activities in terms of EIA Regulations .................................................................... 29 Table 4 Monthly rainfall figures for the Richards Bay area from 2010 to 2013 and the minimum,

maximum and average (mm) ............................................................................................ 31 Table 5 Anticipated impacts and proposed mitigation measures for wetlands and riparian areas44 Table 6 Sample types being monitored by WQMP ....................................................................... 53


UPGRADING OF THE HILLVIEW SEWER RISING MAIN AND SOUTHERN OUTFALL BULK SEWER PIPELINE IN EMPANGENI WATER USE LICENSE APPLICATION – INTEGRATED WATER AND WASTE MANAGEMENT PLAN

7

EEEmmmpppaaannngggeeennniii

N

2

R34

R102

1. INTRODUCTION

1.1 Activity background

The City of uMhlathuze Municipality is in the process of upgrading the Southern Outfall Sewer

system, which currently serves the southern part of Empangeni. The upgrade requires the

installation of entirely new rising main and gravity outfall pipelines which will, for the most part

fall within the existing pipeline servitude, running from the recently upgraded Hillview Pump

Station, around the west of Empangeni and into the existing Empangeni Wastewater Treatment

Works, south of Empangeni. The pipeline will cross several major roads, wetlands and the

Mpangeni River along its route.

The project consists of a number of elements as described below.

1.1.1 Rising Main

The new 450 mm diameter sewer rising main, will run alongside the existing pipeline for

approximately half of the 1.5 km route, from the Hillview Pumping Station to the discharge

chamber. The section where the new rising main will not follow the route of the existing pipeline

is that which runs next to the R34 (Nkwanazi Street) in a 3 meter servitude through the gardens

of a number of residential properties. The use of a registered servitude which exists for 200

metres on the opposite side of the road, where properties have yet to be built, will be

uncomplicated. This servitude will however need to be extended by approximately 475 metres.

The rising main would then need to cross Nkwanazi Street using a trenchless method, where it

will re-enter and follow the existing servitude to the discharge chamber.

Figure 1 General locality of Southern Outfall Sewer



8

1.1.2 Gravity Main

The new 700 mm diameter gravity outfall foul sewer, will fall for the most part within the existing

servitude on its approximately 5.3 km journey from the discharge chamber around the west of

Empangeni and into the existing Empangeni Wastewater Treatment Works, south of

Empangeni. There are various sections, each with their own specific reasons where the new

pipeline will need to deviate from the existing servitude:

1.1.2.1 Elevated Pipe

In the vicinity of Schirra Road, the existing pipeline exists as an above ground steel pipe on

pipe supports, on which it crosses the channelled valley bottom Wetland 5 where it enters the

floodplain Wetland 1. Immediately after which the existing servitude runs through three

residential properties. By moving the pipeline west, significantly less of the pipeline will need to

be above ground and the new pipeline will be realigned to fall outside the property boundaries.

1.1.2.2 Sigma Crescent

At the most southerly end of Sigma Crescent, the existing pipeline servitude runs through

residential properties. The buildings on these properties are very close to the servitude and in

some cases have been extended over the pipeline. The route will be realigned in this area to

bring the pipeline outside the property boundaries. The registration of a new servitude will be

required in this area.

1.1.2.3 Existing servitude

From the record drawings, it appears the existing pipeline does not keep to one side of the

servitude but switches from one to the other along its length. This makes laying the proposed

pipeline within the existing servitude difficult as the new pipeline would have to cross the

existing one. As the proposed pipeline is up to 700 mm in diameter, crossing under existing

pipes would involve a significant increase in trench depth.

It is, therefore, proposed to widen the existing servitude where necessary to accommodate the

proposed pipeline. This will assist with allowing the existing pipeline to remain operational

during construction.



9

SECTIONS OF PROPOSED PIPELINE THAT WILL DEVIATE FROM THE EXISTING

SERVITUDE

Existing Rising Main

Proposed Rising Main

Proposed Gravity Main

Existing Gravity Main

Existing Gravity Main

Proposed Gravity Main

WL 5

WL 1

WL 3

WL 2

Riparian Area 1

Figure 4 New gravity main realigned to bring it outside the property boundaries along Sigma

Crescent

Figure 2 New servitude to be created on the east of

MR230 to avoid residential properties through which the

existing rising main runs in a 3 m servitude

Figure 3 Gravity main realigned west of

the existing servitude to significantly reduce

the amount of pipeline above ground, and

bring it outside property boundaries

WL 3 WL 5



10

1.2 Contact Details

1.2.1 Application for water use licence as per NWA

Applicant: City of uMhlathuze Municipality

Contact: Bestman Mbhamali

Address: 5 Mark Strasse, Central Business District, Richards Bay

Postal: Private Bag X1004, Richards Bay, 3900

E-mail: [email protected]

Tel: 035 907 5463 / 083 635 0803

Fax: 035 907 5452

1.3 Regional setting and location of activity

Southern Outfall Sewer system runs from the Hillview Pump Station around the west of

Empangeni and into the existing Empangeni Wastewater Treatment Works, south of

Empangeni.

1.3.1 Magisterial District, Regional Services Council Authority, Water Management Area

Province: KwaZulu-Natal

Magisterial District: Lower uMfolozi

Local Municipality: City of uMhlathuze Local Municipality

District Municipality: uThungulu District Municipality

Water Management Area: W12H and W12F

1.3.2 Land tenure and use of immediately adjacent land

The land use of the pipeline alignment and land immediately adjacent is predominantly special

residential (~60 – 70 %) with a small amount being public open space (~5 %) and about 25 %

being DFA queries.

1.4 Property description

The proposed development will for the most part fall within the existing sewer servitude, where

the pipeline is forced to deviate from its current route new servitudes will be registered. As is

the case with a linear project of this nature, there are a large number of affected properties.

mailto:[email protected]



11

Table 1 Properties on which water uses associated with the upgrade of the Southern Outfall Sewer

will be registered

Property Description Property Owner Applicable Water Uses

SGKEY ERF and Portion

N0GU00940000396000000 ERF 3960 Hlongwa T J & B B NM

Sections 21 (c) and (1)

N0GU00940000795700000 ERF 7957 Good Deborah Lyn Mrs

N0GU00940000316000000 ERF 3160 Schoeman Don M.

N0GU00940000395700000 ERF 3957

MDV Developments

Pietermaritzburg Pty Ltd

N0GU00940000395800000 ERF 3958

N0GU00940000395900000 ERF 3959

N0GU00940000395700000 ERF 3961

0GU00940000856100000 ERF 8561 New Housing Co M

N0GU00940000856200000 ERF 8562

N0GU00940000891700000 ERF 8917 Provincial Government

of Kwazulu-Natal N0GU00940000316900000 ERF 3169

N0GU00940000795600000 ERF 7956 Quandobyte

Investments (Pty)Ltd

N0GU00940000794800000 ERF 7948

uMhlathuze Municipality

N0GU00940000795500000 ERF 7955

N0GU00940000842100000 ERF 8421

N0GU00940000842200000 ERF 8422

N0GU00940000842300000 ERF 8423

N0GU00940000842400000 ERF 8424

N0GU00940000844600000 ERF 8446

N0GU00940000844900000 ERF 8449

N0GU00940000845300000 ERF 8453

N0GU01690000024600000 ERF RE/246

N0GU00940000795500000 ERF RE/7955

N0GU00940000317500000 ERF 3175

Vision Homes Pty Ltd N0GU00940000712100000 ERF 7121

N0GU00940000712200000 ERF 7122

1.5 Purpose of the IWWMP

This Integrated Water and Waste Management Plan (IWWMP) has been compiled in line with

the Operational Guideline: Integrated Water and Waste Management Plan (February 2010) for

the purpose of documenting all the relevant information required by DWS to enable decision-

making regarding the authorisation of the applicable water uses.

The IWWMP is a legally binding, site specific, implementable, action plan addressing all the

identified water use and waste management related aspects for the widening upgrading of the

Southern Outfall Sewer System. It is in essence a management plan to guide the water user

(City of uMhlathuze Municipality) regarding the water and waste related measures which must

be implemented on site during the construction, rehabilitation and operation phases of the

project.



12

2. CONTEXTUALISATION OF THE ACTIVITY

2.1 Description of activity

The Applicant, the City of uMhlathuze Municipality, intends to upgrade the current Southern

Outfall Sewer system, which includes the rising main from the Hillview Pumping Station and the

gravity main to the Empangeni Waste Water Treatment Works. This present system is old and

undersized, and subject to frequent spillage and overflows of raw sewage.

The proposed new 450 mm diameter rising main will run largely alongside the existing pipeline,

within the existing 6 m servitude, from the Hillview Pumping Station for approximately 1.5 km to

an existing discharge chamber. The gravity outfall, a 700 mm foul sewer, will also fall for the

most part within an existing servitude and will run from the discharge chamber around the west

of Empangeni for approximately 5.3 km and discharge into the existing Empangeni Wastewater

Treatment Works, south of Empangeni.

2.1.1 Pipeline route

Although the proposed project is an upgrade of existing infrastructure and it would be

preferable to lay the new pipeline alongside the existing pipeline, this is not possible for the

entire route. There are various sections, each with their own specific reasons, where the new

pipeline will need to deviate from the existing servitude:

2.1.1.1 Rising Main

From the Hillview Pumping Station the new rising main will follow the existing servitude in

a westerly direction towards the R34 (Nkwanazi Street).

The existing servitude then crosses under and follows Nkwanazi Street in a 3 m

servitude that runs through the front gardens of a number of residential properties. It

would therefore be less complicated for the new pipeline to make use of a registered

servitude which exists for 200 m on the opposite side of the road; but which will need to

be extended by approximately 475 m.

The new rising main will then cross under Nkwanazi Street, using a trenchless method,

re-entering the existing servitude, which crosses under and follows the MR166, for the

remainder of its journey to the Discharge Chamber in the vicinity of Fukwe Street.

2.1.1.2 Gravity Main

The new gravity main will begin at the Discharge Chamber and remains within the

existing servitude, closely following the Mkumbane River until in the vicinity of Carsdale,

near the Gemini Drive crossing, where still within the existing servitude, the new pipeline

then leaves the Mkumbane River following the outer property boundaries around

Carsdale.

In the vicinity of Schirra Road, the existing gravity main exists as an above ground steel

pipe on pipe supports on which it crosses the channelled valley bottom Wetland 5.

Shortly after crossing Wetland 5 the existing servitude crosses through the corner of

three residential properties. By shifting this section of the new pipeline alignment west, a

significantly lesser amount of the pipeline will need to be above ground, and the new

pipeline will fall outside the property boundaries, after which it will re-enter the existing

servitude.

Continuing within the existing servitude, the gravity main traverses through the newly

built Richem Secondary School.

Immediately after Richem Secondary School, near the most southerly end of Sigma

Crescent, the existing gravity main runs through a number of residential properties. The

buildings on these properties are very close to the servitude and in some cases have



13

been extended over the existing pipeline. The new gravity main will thus be realigned in

these areas to bring it outside the property boundaries. As a result of this realignment a

section of the new pipe will be required to be above ground on pipe supports.

For the remainder of the gravity main alignment, the proposed alignment keeps within

the existing servitude before crossing the Mpangeni River using the existing pipe bridge

to enter the Empangeni Waste Water Treatment Works.

2.2 Extent of the activity

2.2.1 Construction servitude

Approximately 6.8 km of new pipe will need to be laid, mostly within the existing servitude, from

the Hillview Pumping Station around the west of Empangeni and into the existing Empangeni

Wastewater Treatment Works, south of Empangeni. The construction servitude will be up to 10

m wide in unrestricted areas and down to 6 m in restricted/sensitive areas (e.g. wetlands and

riparian areas along the Mkumbane and Mpangeni rivers)

2.2.2 Construction camp

A 2 hectare construction camp will be required for the duration of the construction period to

house administrative offices, construction plant and material stockpiles, fuels, storage facilities

and security guard accommodation.

2.2.3 Pipe storage yards

The main storage yard will be at the site camp; however one or two more may need to be

established at various locations along the pipeline route. The location of these storage yards

will need to be carefully selected by avoiding sensitive areas and through negotiations between

the contractor and affected landowners. Each pipe storage yard will be used until that particular

section of pipeline is complete. The pipe storage yards will be rehabilitated progressively

(fencing will be removed and the site will be reinstated with suitable vegetation, etc.).

2.3 Key activity related processes and products

An overview of the anticipated activities that will take place during the pre-construction,

construction, rehabilitation and operation phases of the Southern Outfall Sewer System is

described below.

2.3.1 Pre-construction Phase

Detailed layouts.

Register new servitudes

Detailed geotechnical investigations.

Obtaining of Environmental Authorisation and necessary permits and license.

Procurement process for Contractors.

Tender for various construction works.

Procurement of other necessary materials.



14

2.3.2 Construction Phase

Appoint Environmental Control Officer (ECO).

Set up site camp with temporary offices, ablutions, access control, security; signage etc.

General materials storage and stockpile areas.

Construction of chemicals storage facilities (oil, grease, solvents, fuel etc.) and

associated infrastructure.

Temporary waste storage areas; these shall be established and managed in accordance

with Environmental management Programme (EMPr).

Sourcing of construction materials and equipment from existing lawful commercial

sources; no direct mining, harvesting or extraction of natural resources.

Removal of existing surfacing material.

Excavations and trenching for laying of pipes.

Horizontal drilling for trenchless road crossings.

Use of general mechanical equipment within construction areas (generators, cutting and

welding equipment, compressors etc.).

2.3.3 Rehabilitation Phase

Removal of temporary structures, infrastructures, stockpiles, waste and rubble.

Excavated material stockpiled within the servitude must be backfilled in the reverse order

from which it was removed viz. subsoil first followed by topsoil and finally the wetland

plants.

Final shaping of the construction site to ensure free flow of run-off and to prevent

damming of water.

Re-vegetation and planting by a suitably qualified Contractor.

Weed and invader plant control.

Monitoring of rehabilitated areas.

2.3.4 Operation Phase

The operation and maintenance of the Southern Outfall Sewer System will be the responsibility

of the City of uMhlathuze Municipality once construction is complete. Anticipated activities

include:

Operation and maintenance of infrastructure.

Ongoing consultation with directly affected parties.

Ongoing management and conservation of adjacent wetlands and other sensitive areas.

2.3.5 Decommissioning Phase

The decommissioning of the Southern Outfall Sewer System is not anticipated. However,

should decommissioning be required the activity will need to comply with the appropriate

environmental legislation and best practices at that time.

2.4 Activity life description

The project will consist of a construction period of approximately 12 months. The rehabilitation

of disturbed areas, where required, will occur concurrently with the construction.



15

2.5 Activity infrastructure description

The proposed new 450 mm diameter rising main will run largely alongside the existing pipeline,

within the existing 6 m servitude, from the Hillview Pumping Station for approximately 1.5 km to

an existing discharge chamber. The gravity outfall, a 700 mm foul sewer, will also fall for the

most part within an existing servitude and will run from the discharge chamber around the west

of Empangeni for approximately 5.3 km and discharge into the existing Empangeni Wastewater

Treatment Works, south of Empangeni. Construction activities and infrastructure required will

include the following:

2.5.1 Construction camp

A 2-hectare construction camp will be required for the duration of the construction period to

house administrative offices, construction plant and material stockpiles, fuels, storage facilities

and security guard accommodation. Construction workers will not be accommodated at the

construction camp. It will be necessary to select an area that will have minimal environmental

impact, for which compensation may need to be paid. The logical place for this is the vacant

area within the Empangeni Waste Water Treatment Works. The Environmental Control Officer

(ECO) will need to approve the construction camp location.

A suitable number of chemical toilets must be provided on site for the construction staff. Solid

waste will be taken to the uThungulu landfill site in Empangeni.

2.5.2 Construction servitude

The construction servitude will be up to 10 m wide in unrestricted areas and down to 6 m in

restricted/sensitive areas (e.g. wetlands and the Riparian areas along the Mkumbane and

Mpangeni Rivers). All trees and vegetation will need to be removed within the 6 m servitude

area for the trenching and laying of pipes, after which, the area will be rehabilitated using

indigenous herbaceous vegetation with non-invasive root systems.

2.5.3 Pipe storage yards

The main storage yard will be at the site camp; however one or two more may need to be

established at various locations along the pipeline route. The location of these storage yards

will need to be carefully selected by avoiding sensitive areas and through negotiations between

the contractor and affected landowners. Each pipe storage yard will be used until that particular

section of pipeline is complete. The pipe storage yards will be rehabilitated when they are no

longer needed (fencing will be removed and the site will be reinstated with suitable vegetation,

etc.).

2.5.4 Access

The majority of the alignment is accessible via existing district, provincial and old farm roads

and maximum use will be made of existing access roads. During construction however, it may

be necessary to construct temporary access roads, the majority of which will fall within the

construction servitude. The temporary access roads will comprise a simple single lane track

immediately alongside the trench and will be cleared and roughly levelled for vehicular access.

Temporary access roads will have to be identified with the assistance of, and approved by, the

ECO and Resident Engineer (RE) so that they do not infringe on sensitive areas. The

temporary access tracks will be rehabilitated on a progressive basis during the construction

phase.



16

2.6 Key water uses and waste streams

2.6.1 Key water uses

The key water uses for the upgrading of the Southern Outfall Sewer System are in terms of

section 21 (c) and (i) of the NWA:

Section 21(c) - Impeding or diverting the flow of water in a watercourse; “causing an

obstruction to the flow of water in a watercourse, or diverting some or all of the flow in or

from a watercourse”

Section 21(i) - Altering the bed, banks, course or characteristics of a watercourse; “any

changes affecting the morphology and topography of the watercourse including changes

affecting the riparian and instream habitat characteristics and the dynamics of a

watercourse.”

The following Section 21 (c) and (i) water uses apply for the upgrading of the Southern Outfall

Sewer System:

Section 21 (c) and (i) – For construction of the rising main through parts of Wetland 3.

Section 21 (c) and (i) – For construction of the rising main within 500 m of Wetland 2.

Section 21 (c) and (i) – For construction of the gravity main through parts of Wetland 1.

Section 21 (c) and (i) – For construction of the gravity main within 500 m of Wetland 10.

Section 21 (c) and (i) – For construction of the gravity main within 500 m of Wetland 4.

Section 21 (c) and (i) – For construction of the gravity main through parts of Wetland 5.

Section 21 (c) and (i) – For construction of the gravity main across the Mpangeni River.

Refer to Figure 5 below and the Master Layout Plan (Appendix 9) for a map of the wetland

areas identified with the study area.



17

LEGEND

Wetland (W) – impacted by

pipeline construction

Wetland (W) – unlikely to be

affected by pipeline construction

Riparian Area (RA)

Pipeline upgrade

Existing pipeline

500 m buffer around pipeline

RA6

W3

W13

W14

W2

RA4

Figure 5 Google Earth aerial photo series showing wetlands and riparian areas found within the area of interest (1 of 3)



18

W1

RA5

W12

RA3

W1

W10

W4




19

RA2

W5

RA1

W6

W7

W9

W11

W8




20

2.6.2 Waste streams

No waste streams will be generated during the operation of the Southern Outfall Sewer

System, however the following measures must be in place for waste related activities during

construction:

2.6.2.1 Ablution facilities

An adequate number of ablution facilities must be available and not further that 200m

from the construction working area.

Ablution facilities must be situated well above the 1:100 year floodlines and outside

buffer areas around wetlands and riparian areas.

Ablutions must be cleaned/ emptied on a regular basis to avoid contamination of the

environment.

2.6.2.2 Wastewater

Wastewater must not be disposed of into wetlands or any nearby surface water bodies.

All waste water during construction must be disposed at an approved waste disposal

site. Waste disposal slips are to be obtained and kept on site at all times.

Ablution facilities shall be regularly emptied by a reputable service provider.

2.6.2.3 Solid waste

All construction waste such as rubble, cement bags, waste cement, timber, can, other

containers, wire and nails must be collected and stored in designated and demarcated

areas in skips and/or bins.

Waste that is recyclable is to be recycled and separated at site.

Refuse which cannot be recycled shall be disposed of at the nearest DWS-licensed

waste disposal facility within the region (uThungulu regional landfill site in Empangeni).

2.6.2.4 Hydrocarbon and Hazardous waste

All potential hazardous wastes generated at the site must be removed and disposed by

an approved contractor.

Potentially hazardous raw and waste materials shall be handled and stored on-site in

accordance with the manufacturer's specification and relevant legal requirements.

All hydrocarbon (e.g. fuel, oils and contaminated soil/materials) and other hazardous

waste resulting from spills, refuelling and maintenance activities shall be disposed of in a

formally licensed hazardous waste site or, where possible, be removed and disposed by

an approved contractor.

The Contractor shall provide Safe Disposal Certificates to the Construction Safety Officer

and ECO. Safe Disposal Slips shall be kept onsite for record purposes at all times.

Further details on waste management are provided in the Environmental Management

Programme (Appendix 13).

2.7 Organisational structure of activity / company

The City of uMhlathuze Municipality was established on 5th December 2000 after the

demarcation process and the local government elections of that date. As such it encompasses

the towns of Empangeni, Richards Bay, eSikhaleni, Ngwelezane, eNseleni, Vulindlela and

Felixton as well as the Traditional Authority areas under Amakhosi Dube, Mkhwanazi, Khoza,

Mbuyazi and Zungu. The uMhlathuze Local Municipality has been divided into 30 municipal

wards.



21

2.7.1 Vision

The City of uMhlathuze, as a port city, will offer improved quality of life for all its citizens through

sustainable development. It will be a renowned centre for: Trade, Tourism and Nature-lovers,

Coastal Recreation, Commerce, Industry, Forestry, and Agriculture.

2.7.2 Mission

To develop uMhlathuze as the industrial, commercial and administrative centre within the

natural beauty of the region. Providing a range of efficient municipal services, thereby ensuring

economic development, dynamic investment growth and an improvement in the quality of life

for all.

2.7.3 Department of Infrastructure and Technical Services

The Department Infrastructure and Technical Services in the Municipality is charged with the

responsibility to ensure inter alia provision, development, extension and maintenance of

infrastructural networks and bulk supplies. This is response to the Constitutional mandate of

provision of services to communities in a sustainable manner and promotion of safe and

healthy environment.

2.8 Business and corporate policies related to the environment

The City of uMhlathuze has identified and prioritized the following as key to meeting its

environmental targets and objectives:

To ensure legal compliance of environmental bylaws and legislative requirements by all

(Council, Employees, Contractors).

To ensure sufficient suite of local environmental bylaws and effective enforcement

thereof.

Regulation of land use and enforcement of usage of land in terms of the town planning

scheme and land use management system.

To minimize air pollution (prevention and reduction) in the City of uMhlathuze through

efficient monitoring.

To reduce overall water pollution within the municipality as a result of land use practices

through monitoring hotspots and imposing stringent requirements during EIA and

planning processes.

To ensure management of all water resources in a sustainable manner by adhering to

lake management plans and water services bylaws.

To ensure the management of soil and land resources in a sustainable manner through

environmental and land use planning.

To ensure the protection of habitats and natural resources that would contribute to

conservation targets of the province.

To preserve heritage resources by preventing damage and loss through development

planning processes and through the tourism sector.

Complying with the provisions of the National Environmental Management: Integrated

Coastal Management Act.

Maintaining the biological diversity and productivity of coastal ecosystems through

implementation of coastal management programme and estuary management plans.

To comply with the provisions of National Environmental Management: Waste Act by

appointment of a waste management officer and compilation of a waste management

plan for the City of uMhlathuze.

http://127.0.0.1/wordpress-3.5.1.tar/wordpress/?page_id=21



22

To improve energy efficiency of existing facilities and reducing demand in terms of the

strategy set out in the energy sector plan, and facilitating renewable energy/co-

generation initiatives and projects.

To be prepared and anticipate disaster management within the municipality.

To ensure that the municipality maintains its environmental assets through environmental

tools such as project specific EIA’s, the EMF and the Environmental Framework of the

SDF.

To increase the knowledge and understanding, and prepare for vulnerability to

environmental changes within the municipality.

3. REGULATORY WATER AND WASTE MANAGEMENT FRAMEWORK

3.1 Summary of all water uses

Construction for the upgrading of the Southern Outfall Sewer System will involve the laying of

entirely new rising main and gravity main pipelines through parts of and within 500 m of several

wetlands, and across the Mpangeni River.

In terms of the NWA these activities constitute Section 21 (c) and (i) water uses for impeding or

diverting the flow of water in a watercourse; and altering the bed, banks, course or

characteristics of a watercourse. The applicant is therefore required to apply for a licence to use

water in terms of these sections as set out in Sections 40 (1) and 41 of the NWA. A summary of

the wetlands and watercourses assessed and the water uses applied for in this IWWMP is

provided below:

3.1.1 Wetland 1

Wetland 1 is described as a floodplain wetland with a Present Ecological State (PES) falling

within category C (Moderately Modified) and an Ecological Importance and Sensitivity (EIS)

category of B (High). The floodplain wetland is closely associated with the banks Mkumbane

River, and approximately 2, 952 m of the new Gravity Main will be constructed through the

delineated wetland area.

A section 21 (c) and (i) water use has therefore been applied for construction through parts of

and within 500 m of this wetland.

3.1.2 Wetland 2

Wetland 2 is a valley bottom wetland with a channel, with a PES category of C (Moderately

Modified) and an EIS of C (Moderate). The new Rising Main will be constructed within 27 m of

the delineated edge of the wetland.

A section 21 (c) and (i) water use has therefore been applied for construction within 500 m of

this wetland.

3.1.3 Wetland 3

Wetland 3 is a valley bottom wetland with a channel with a PES category of C (Moderately

Modified) and an EIS of C (Moderate). The new Rising Main will be constructed through

approximately 197 m of the delineated wetland area.





23

3.1.4 Wetland 4

Wetland 4 is a valley bottom wetland with a channel with a PES falling within category E (only

some remaining natural habitat features) and an EIS of C (Moderate). The new Gravity Main

will be constructed within 5 m of the edge of the delineated wetland area.

A section 21 (c) and (i) water use has therefore been applied for construction within 500 m of

this wetland.

3.1.5 Wetland 5

Wetland 5 is a valley bottom wetland with a channel with a PES falling within category E (only

some remaining natural habitat features) and an EIS of C (Moderate). Approximately 18 m of

the new Gravity Main will be constructed across the delineated wetland area.



3.1.6 Wetland 6

Wetland 6 is largely an artificial pond excavated out of the floodplain of the Empangeni River.

Although it is an aquatic ecosystem, this system is essentially artificial in nature and use of the

Wet-EcoServices and Wet-Health systems to obtain PES and EIS are unlikely to provide

meaningful results.

The wetland is located approximately 160 m south of new Gravity Main, and on the opposite

bank of the Mpangeni River. It is highly unlikely that the new Gravity Main will impact on the

resource quality of the wetland therefore no water use has been applied for.

3.1.7 Wetland 7


Modified).

The wetland is located approximately 70 m south of new Gravity Main, and on the opposite

bank of the Mpangeni River. It is highly unlikely that the new Gravity Main will have any impact

on the resource quality of the wetland therefore no water use has been applied for.

3.1.8 Wetland 8


Modified).

The wetland is located approximately 150 m upstream of where the new Gravity Main will cross

the Mpangeni River to enter the Empangeni Waste Water Treatment Works. It is highly unlikely

that the new Gravity Main will have any impact on the resource quality of the wetland therefore

no water use has been applied for.



24

3.1.9 Wetland 9


Modified).





3.1.10 Wetland 10

Wetland 10 is a valley bottom wetland with a channel with a PES of D (Largely Modified) and

an EIS of C (Moderate). The new Gravity Main will be constructed within 3 m of delineated

wetland area.



3.1.11 Wetland 11

Possible floodplain wetland area, likely to have experienced historic soil disturbance and is

currently used as a grassed lawn which is regularly mowed for used as a recreational area.





3.1.12 Wetland 12

Wetland 12 is a hillslope seepage wetland, with a PES of D (Largely Modified).

The wetland is located approximately 310 m away and upslope of the new Gravity Main and

separated by President Swart Avenue. It is highly unlikely that the new Gravity Main will have

any impact on the resource quality of the wetland therefore no water use has been applied for.

3.1.13 Wetland 13

Wetland 13 is a valley bottom wetland with a channel with a PES of E (only some remaining

natural habitat features).

The wetland is located approximately 292 m away and upslope of the new Rising Main and

separated by Nkwanazi and Gwalagwala Streets. It is highly unlikely that the new Rising Main

will have any impact on the resource quality of the wetland therefore no water use has been

applied for.



25

3.1.14 Wetland 14

Wetland 14 is a valley bottom wetland with a channel with a PES of E (only some remaining

natural habitat features).

The wetland is located approximately 205 m away and upslope of the new Rising Main and

separated by Nkwanazi and Gwalagwala Streets. It is highly unlikely that the new Rising Main

will have any impact on the resource quality of the wetland therefore no water use has been

applied for.

3.1.3 Mkumbane River – Riparian Area Crossing (Riparian Area 1)

As a result of the realignment of the gravity main pipeline, to bring the new pipeline to the

outside of the boundaries of the properties along Sigma Crescent, approximately 44 m of the

new Gravity Main will need to cross a section of the riparian area associated with the

Mkumbane River.

A section 21 (c) and (i) water use has therefore been applied for the crossing of the delineated

riparian area.

3.1.3 Mpangeni River Crossing (Riparian Area 2)

The new Gravity Main will need to cross the Mpangeni River, on the existing concrete pipe

supports, in order to enter the Empangeni Waste Water Treatment Works.

The riparian habitat through which the Gravity Main will cross has been identified as the

Syzygium cordatum – Bridelia micrantha riverine community (ACER 2014). Although comprised

of mostly early successional trees and shrubs together with alien invasive vegetation due to its

location along the existing sewer pipeline and/or along existing housing infrastructure this

riparian vegetation performs important ecological functions including river bank stabilisation and

flood protection; and also provide important refugia for fauna in the area. In addition, rivers are

considered important movement corridors or ecological linkages within a landscape.

A section 21 (c) and (i) water use has therefore been applied for the crossing of the Mpangeni

River and the associated delineated riparian area.

3.2 Existing lawful water uses

Not applicable, no lawful water uses exist for the existing or proposed infrastructure.

3.3 Relevant exemptions

No exemptions applicable for the upgrading of the Southern Outfall Sewer, or are included in

this application.

3.4 Generally authorised water uses

No generally authorised water uses exist for the upgrading of the Southern Outfall Sewer or are

included in this application.



26

3.5 New water uses to be authorised

Table 2 List of applicable water uses to be authorised for the upgrading of the Southern Outfall Sewer

No. Water Use HGM Unit Purpose PES EIS Volume / Dimensions Property Description Property Owner Coordinates

1 Section 21

(c) and (i)

Wetland 1

Floodplain

Construction of Gravity

Main pipeline through

and within 500 m of

Wetland 1

C B

2,952 m of Gravity

Main pipeline through

Wetland 1

ERF 8449


Start –

28°44'33.02"S

31°52'53.92"E

ERF 8424

ERF 8453

ERF 8423

ERF 8422

ERF 8421

ERF 8446

ERF 3960 Hlongwa T J & B B NM.

ERF 3959

MDV Developments

Pietermaritzburg Pty Ltd

ERF 3958

ERF 3957

ERF 3961

End –

28°46'14.48"S

31°53'29.91"E

ERF 7956 Quandobyte Investments

(Pty)Ltd

ERF 8917 Provincial Government KZN

ERF 3169

ERF 8561 New Housing Co M

ERF 8562

ERF 7957 Good Deborah Lyn Mrs

ERF 3160 Schoeman, Don,M.

(Richem Secondary School)

ERF 3175

Vision Homes Pty Ltd M ERF 7122

ERF 7121



27

2 Section 21

(c) and (i)

Wetland 2

Valley Bottom

(Channelled)

Construction of Rising

Main within 500 m of

Wetland 2

C C

Rising Main pipeline 27

m from edge of

Wetland 2

ERF 7955


Start –

28°44'17.12"S

31°52'51.18"E ERF 7948

End –

28°44'33.02"S

31°52'53.93"E ERF 8449

3 Section 21

(c) and (i)

Wetland 3

Valley Bottom

(Channelled)

Construction of Rising

Main through and

within 500 m of

Wetland 3

C C

197 m of Rising Main

pipeline through

Wetland 3

RE/7955 uMhlathuze Municipality

Start –

28°44'0.26"S

31°52'55.08"E

End –

28°44'24.98"S

31°52'54.70"E

4 Section 21

(c) and (i)

Wetland 4

Valley Bottom

(Channelled)



Wetland 4

E C

Gravity Main pipeline 5

m from edge of

Wetland 4

ERF 8562 New Housing Co M Start –

28°45'46.08"S

31°53'2.66"E ERF 8917 Provincial Government KZN

End –

28°45'46.44"S

31°53'4.09"E ERF 3175 Vision Homes Pty Ltd

5 Section 21

(c) and (i)

Wetland 5

Valley Bottom

(Channelled)


Main through and

within 500 m of

Wetland 5

E C

18 m of Rising Main

pipeline through

Wetland 5

ERF 3175 Vision Homes Pty Ltd

Start –

28°45'52.34"S

31°53'10.03"E

End –

28°45'52.88"S

31°53'10.24"E

6 Section 21

(c) and (i)

Wetland 10

Valley Bottom

(Channelled)



Wetland 10

D C

Gravity Main pipeline 3

m from edge of

Wetland

ERF 8917 Provincial Government KZN

Start –

28°45'37.47"S

31°52'43.70"E

End –

28°45'38.79"S

31°52'46.45"E



28

7 Section 21

(c) and (i)

Riparian Area 1

(Mkumbane

River)


Main across the

Riparian Area 1

Gravity Main pipeline

across a section of the

riparian area

associated with the

Mkumbane River.


Start –

28°46'13.05"S

31°53'36.67"E


End –

28°46'12.30"S

31°53'38.07"E

8 Section 21

(c) and (i) Mpangeni River


Main across the

Mpangeni River

Gravity Main through

riparian area and

across the Mpangeni

River.

ERF RE/246 uMhlathuze Municipality

Start –

28°46'17.32"S

31°53'54.81"E

End –

28°46'22.81"S

31°53'53.55"E



29

3.6 Waste management activities (NEMWA)

The National Environmental Management: Waste Act, Act 59 of 2008 (NEMWA) follows the

principle that waste generation be avoided, or if it cannot be avoided, that it is reduced, re-

used, recycled or recovered, and as a last resort treated and/or safely disposed of.

No waste management activities NEMWA are required for the upgrading of the Southern Outfall

Sewer System.

3.7 Waste related authorisations

No waste related authorisations are required for the upgrading of the Southern Outfall Sewer

System.

3.8 Other authorisations (EIAs, EMPrs, EAs, Regulations)

3.8.1 Environmental Authorisation (Basic Assessment)

Environmental Authorisation (EA) for the upgrading of the Hillview sewer rising main and

southern outfall bulk sewer pipeline, in Empangeni was issued by the KZN DEDTEA on 6th

August 2015, following a Basic Assessment conducted by ACER (Appendix 11).

Environmental Authorisation via a Basic Assessment (BA) was required as the upgrading of the

Southern Outfall Sewer System triggered activities in both Listing Notice 1 and 3 of the

Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) Regulations (Government Notice R.543 of 18 June

2010).

Table 3 Listed Activities in terms of EIA Regulations

Activity No (s) (in terms of the

relevant or notice)

Description of each listed activity as per the project description

(and not as per wording of the relevant Government Notice)

Activity 9 of Listing Notice 1: No.

R. 544 of June 2010

The laying of a 0.45 m diameter, rising main pipeline of

approximately 1,500 m in length and; a 0.7 m diameter, gravity main

of approximately 5,300 m, for the bulk transportation of sewage.

The route which will run largely within the servitudes of the existing

pipeline, will however cross several major roads as well as several

streams and the need to establish new servitudes in some places is

likely.

Activity 11 of Listing Notice 1:

No. R. 544 of June 2010

The laying of approximately 6,800 m of pipeline will fall mostly within

an existing servitude however the need to cross several streams and

establish new servitudes within 32 m of a watercourse is likely.


No. R. 544 of June 2010

The laying of approximately 6,800 m of pipeline will fall mostly within

an existing servitude however the need to cross several streams in

an above ground steel pipe on pipe supports, will likely result in the

infilling or depositing of material of more than 5 m3 into the

respective watercourse.


No. R. 546 of June 2010

The need to widen existing and establish new servitudes in certain

areas, will likely result in the clearance of vegetation where 75% or

more of the vegetative cover constitutes indigenous vegetation.



30

3.8.2 Licence to destroy Natural Forests and Protected Trees or Plants

According to section 15(1) of the National Forests Act, 1998 (Act 84 of 1998), no person may

cut, disturb, damage, destroy, possess, collect, remove, transport, export, purchase, sell,

donate or in any other manner acquire or dispose of any protected tree or any forest product

derived from a protected tree except under a licence or exemption granted by the Minister of

the Department of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries (DAFF).

The vegetation and wetland Assessment (ACER, 2014) recommends that even though the site

has experienced disturbance in the past, a search and rescue operation must undertaken prior

to construction to find any Threatened or Protected species or any other species of concern,

particularly in the riparian habitats.

Following the identification of threatened or protected species, the relevant licence applications

must be submitted to DAFF or Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife (EKZNW), and the licence granted

before construction can commence.

4. PRESENT ENVIRONMENTAL SITUATION

4.1 Climate

4.1.1 Regional Climate

The City of uMhlathuze is characterized by a warm to hot and humid subtropical climate, with

warm moist winters. Average daily maximum temperatures range from 29ºC in January to 23ºC

in July, and extremes can reach more than 40 ºC in summer. The average annual rainfall is

1228mm most of which falls in the summer, from October to March. Extreme rainfall and

thundershowers are occasional occurrences in the Zululand Region, resulting in extensive

flooding.

4.1.2 Rainfall

The average annual rainfall is 1 228 mm and most (~80%) of the rainfall occurs in the summer,

from October to March, although rainfall also occurs in winter (~20%) (uMhlathuze Local

Municipality , 2015).



31

Table 4 Monthly rainfall figures for the Richards Bay area from 2010 to 2013 and the minimum,

maximum and average (mm)

Month 2011 2012 2013

January 150.8 54.0 177.8

February 59.4 118.0 122.4

March 78.2 245.2 97.4

April 138.4 49.6 50.6

May 40 15.4 111.6

June 42 43.2 49.2

July 130.2 16.0 27.4

August 39.2 15.8 38.4

September 73.6 206.8 62.0

October 91.2 139.6 137.4

November 119.4 97.2 57.0

December 102.8 158.8 119.4

Minimum 39.2 15.4 27.4

Average 88.8 96.6 87.6

Maximum 150.8 245.2 177.8

4.1.3 Evaporation

Evaporation in the region exceeds the annual precipitation (Germishuyse, 1999), with estimates

ranging between 1300 to 1400 mm/year.

4.2 Surface water

4.2.1 Water Management Area

The Southern Outfall Sewer System spans across two quarternary drainage regions, W12F and

W12H of the Usutu to Mhlathuze Water Management Area.

The Mhlathuze catchment is the most developed catchment in the Usutu-Mhlathuze WMA. It is

this catchment which is seen as the principal income generator providing economic viability to

the Usutu-Mhlathuze WMA.

4.2.2 Surface Water Hydrology

The majority of the rising main pipeline falls within the W12H quarternary drainage region,

which is drained by the Okula River, just north of the Hillview Pump Station. The Okula River

feed the Nseleni River which then feeds the Mhlathuze River.

The last 150 m of the rising main and the entire gravity main falls within the W12F quarternary

drainage region, which is drained by the Mkumbane River which feeds into the Mpangeni River,

both of which eventually feed the Mhlathuze River.

A large portion of the pipeline follows the development boundary delineated along the edge of

the Mkumbane River, the pipeline leaves the edge of the Mkumbane River and then crosses

the Mpangeni River using the existing pipe bridge to enter the Empangeni Waste Water

Treatment Works.



32

4.2.3 Mean Annual Runoff (MAR)

The runoff from the Mhlathuze catchment is difficult to estimate accurately due to inaccurate

and inadequate gauging within the catchment. Runoff is also obviously affected by

development within the catchment.

The estimated natural runoff from the W12 catchment is 583 million m3/annum, this is

approximately 17.9 % of the mean annual rainfall.

4.2.4 Resource Class (WET-Health)

4.2.4.1 Wetlands

The following wetland hydrogeomorphic (HGM) types were identified within the area of interest

(after Kotze, et. al., 2007) and are shown on Figures 1-3:

One floodplain wetland.

Ten valley bottom with channel wetlands.

One valley bottom without channel wetland.

One hillslope seepage feeding a water course wetland.

An additional area was also identified which possibly could be a floodplain wetland area (W11

on Figure 7). However further detailed studies will be necessary to establish its status as it is

likely to have experienced historic soil disturbance and is currently used as a grassed lawn

which is regularly mowed for used as a recreational area.

The wetland functional assessment took into account those sections of wetlands which extend

beyond the boundary of the 500 m pipeline buffer. Thirteen separate HGM units were identified

within the 500 m pipeline buffer, not all of which are likely to be affected by pipeline

construction (see Appendix 1 for summary of results for each HGM unit). A wide range of

impacts have influenced the results of this assessment due to the mixed nature of the land-use

in this rapidly urbanising area. These include factors associated with urbanisation, commercial

sugarcane farming as well as subsistence agriculture together with impacts associated with

grazing of livestock.

Out of all the wetlands identified on site, wetlands 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 and 10 are either directly

affected or are likely to affected by pipeline construction. Wetlands 6, 7, 8, 9, 11, 12, 13 and 14

are positioned far away enough from the pipeline route that they are unlikely to be affected by

the upgrade, assuming that the provisions of the environmental management plan (EMP) are

enforced. The results below are discussed for those wetlands which are either directly affected

or are likely to affected by pipeline construction.

4.2.5 Receiving Water Quality Objectives and the Reserve

There are no Resource Quality Objectives available for the Usutu-Mhlathuze WMA. However,

according to the Internal Strategic Perspective (ISP) for the WMA (DWAF, 2004), in terms of

actual current water use, there is surplus water available in the catchment while in terms of

allocations the catchment is seriously stressed. The Mhlathuze catchment is the economic

‘powerhouse’ of the Usutu to Mhlathuze WMA and the use and sales of water within this

catchment are critical both for its own good management and for the management of the rest of

the WMA. The Richards Bay/ Empangeni industrial complex is a national growth point still

developing on the basis of national investment in port, rail and road infrastructure. At the same

time the available water within the catchment has been over allocated to users, and water

accounting indicates severe stress conditions.



33

In practice irrigated agriculture does not use its full allocation during normal years, and

restrictions prevent this use during drought conditions. The most significant water-related

infrastructure is the Goedertrouw Dam, with a capacity of 304 million m 3. This is situated in the

upper catchment. Water can also be transferred into the Goedertrouw Dam from the Thukela

via the Middeldrift transfer scheme at a maximum rate of 34 million m 3/annum. 18 million m 3

of water is also imported into the Mhlathuze catchment from the Mfolozi catchment for use in

mining operations by Richards Bay Minerals each year

4.3 Socio-economic environment

4.3.1 Economic and population profile for City of uMhlathuze Local Municipality

The City of uMhlathuze (KZ 282) is situated on the north-east coast of the province of KwaZulu-

Natal, about 180 kilometres north-east of Durban. The uMhlathuze area covers 795 km² and

incorporates Richards Bay, Empangeni, eSikhaleni, Ngwelezane, eNseleni, Felixton and

Vulindlela, as well as the rural areas under Traditional Councils namely, Dube, Mkhwanazi,

Khoza, and Zungu.

The population is estimated at 334,459 (Census, 2011). The municipality borders a coastline

that spans approximately 45 km. The N2 highway traverses the uMhlathuze Municipality in a

north-east direction towards the Swaziland border and south-west towards Durban. It effectively

forms a division between Empangeni and Richards Bay.

In accordance with the Municipal Structures Act, 1998 (No. 117 of 1998), the City of

uMhlathuze is the Water Services Authority (WSA) and the Water Service Provider (WSP) for

the Municipality. The WSA has a duty to all consumers, or potential consumers, in its area of

jurisdiction to progressively ensure efficient, affordable, economical and sustainable access to

water supply and sanitation (collectively referred to as water services). As a WSA, the City of

uMhlathuze focuses on water services and on providing at least a basic level of service to

consumers in its area of jurisdiction.

4.3.1.1 Water and sanitation

Water and sanitation backlogs have been monitored and are reported on a quarterly basis to

the Council structures by the Infrastructure and Technical Services Department. The City of

uMhlathuze has formulated a level of service policy and this is defined in the Free Basic Water

policy. The policy identifies and deals with the following levels of water services:

Supply of water through communal water services i.e. standpipe.

Supply of uncontrolled volume of water to a household where a water meter is installed.

The City of uMhlathuze has formulated a Level of Service Policy for Sanitation in rural and

urban areas. In formalised urban areas a waterborne system will be implemented and in rural

areas Ventilated Improved Pit Latrines will be installed.

It must be noted that in peri-urban areas or dense settlements adjacent to urban areas, which

are close to a Water Resource, it will be advisable that shallow sewers be installed in order to

protect a water resource.

The City of uMhlathuze in its capacity as the WSA and juristic entity is compelled by the Water

Services Act, 1998 (No. 107 of 1997) and the National Water Act, 1998 (No. 36 of 1998) to

ensure that the quality of the municipality’s water resources, potable water and wastewater

systems are continually monitored in an endeavour to maintain quality and evaluate against set

standards/specifications/guidelines. The Scientific Services section is responsible for the



34

effective management of this function within the WSA Division. Various key functional areas

within the Scientific Services contribute to the reliability and credibility of an effective water

quality management system. The two major sections of the Scientific Services is the laboratory

and Water Quality Management section. Together these sections exist in a cooperative

relationship in an endeavour to combat water pollution.

4.3.1.2 Water Quality Management

The City of uMhlathuze has the following Water Quality Functions:

Water and wastewater quality monitoring as per the Water Quality Monitoring Program

(WQMP).

Drinking Water Quality Management (including consumer complaint management).

Industrial Effluent Permit Management.

Industrial Pollution Management.

Water pollution incident investigations.

4.3.1.3 Drinking water and wastewater systems

There are currently two WSPs namely; Water and Sanitation Services of South Africa (WSSA)

and Mhlathuze Water, who are contractually responsible for the water and wastewater

purification and distribution function. An extensive water quality-monitoring program for drinking

water and wastewater quality has been implemented. The monitoring program contains the

following:

Water Treatment Works:

Esikhaleni Water Treatment Works.

Mzingazi Water Treatment Works.

Ngwelazane Water Treatment Works.

Drinking Water Reticulation monitoring: There are a number of test points along the water

networks that serve to ensure that the quality of potable water (to the consumer) complies

with national standards (SANS 241:2011). There are 53 samples tested per week/month by

WSSA and 8 sample points by uMhlathuze Water.

Waste Water Treatment Works includes:

Alton Macerator Station.

Arboretum Macerator Station.

Nseleni Wastewater Treatment Works.

Esikhaleni Wastewater Treatment Works.

Empangeni Wastewater Treatment Works.

Ngwelazane Wastewater Treatment Works.

Vulindela Wastewater Treatment Works.



35

5. ANALYSIS AND CHARACTERISATION OF ACTIVITY

5.1 Site delineation for characterisation

5.1.1 Water supply

Water for construction will be sourced from the municipality and shall be delivered to site via

tankers as and when required. This activity will not trigger a water use in terms of Section 21 of

the NWA.

5.1.2 Waste Management

5.1.2.1 Process water (water supply, water balance, reuse and recycling, water conservation and

demand management, sewerage management, point source discharges)

The upgrading of the Southern Outfall Sewer System does not require or trigger any formal

waste management activities except the management of waste during the construction phase,

which must be undertaken as per the conditions of the EMPr (Appendix 13):

SOLID WASTE

The Contractor must ensure that personnel make use of the litter bins provided and that

the construction site and the construction camp are kept tidy and litter-free at all times.

All domestic waste must be collected in litter bins.

Litter bins must be equipped with a closing mechanism to prevent their contents from

blowing out and scavengers from getting in.

Litter bins must be emptied weekly (or as required before they reach capacity).

Domestic waste must be taken to a licensed landfill site. Waste must be transported

responsibly, avoiding waste spills en-route.

Where necessary, a storage area must be dedicated on site for the collection of

construction waste.

No solid waste may be burned or buried on site or disposed of by any other method.

Where feasible, waste paper, glass and metal waste must be collected separately and

arranged for collection by recycling Contractors.

No burning of waste is permitted.

LIQUID WASTE

Suitable, sufficient and conveniently located sanitation facilities must be provided as per

the approved construction site layout plan.

Toilets must be regularly emptied and serviced.

The Contractor is entirely responsible for enforcing their use and for maintaining all toilets

in a clean, orderly and sanitary condition to the satisfaction of the ECO.

Sewage must be disposed of at a licensed wastewater treatment site and may under no

circumstances be dumped in the bush or buried.

HAZARDOUS WASTE

Compliance with all national, regional and local legislation must be ensured with regard

to the storage, handling and disposal of hydrocarbons, chemicals, solvents and any other

harmful and hazardous substances and materials.

Hazardous waste must be stored as indicated on the approved construction site layout

plan.

Drip trays must be used where dispensing mechanisms or stored receptacles may leak.

No spillage of hazardous products must be allowed on-site. Special care must be taken

to avoid contamination of surface or groundwater.

Under no circumstances shall the spoiling of hazardous products on site be allowed.



36

Waste oils and batteries must be retained for recycling by the supplier, wherever

possible.

Used oil and lubricants must be collected in a holding tank and disposed of at a

registered hazardous waste disposal site.

Hazardous waste not earmarked for reuse, recycling or resale must be disposed of at a

registered hazardous waste disposal site.

The repair and/or maintenance of vehicles and equipment on-site is not permitted.

5.2 Storm water (clean and dirty water management)

5.2.1 Groundwater potential sources of pollution

5.2.1.1 Construction Phase

Refuelling construction equipment.

Storm water runoff from increased hard surfaces and exposed surfaces as a construction

phase

Associated materials that could lead to contamination include diesel and/or petrol

hydrocarbon products and greases and oils used and leakages from trucks.

Sewerage spills from the decommissioning of the existing pipes and infrastructure.

5.2.1.2 Operations Phase

Sewerage over flows leakages due to blockages or damage to infrastructure.

5.2.2 Impact prediction

5.2.2.1 Construction Phase

The impact of a hydrocarbon spill to groundwater could have a regional impact should it

migrate with the groundwater flow toward the rivers and wetlands. However, this would

be dependent on the volume and type of hydrocarbon compound released. The intensity

of the impact of a minor hydrocarbon spillage would be medium as the soil and

groundwater conditions would be impacted but processes would continue. The impact

would be medium term (2-15 years) as natural degrading processes in soil and

groundwater would degrade and attenuate the released hydrocarbon naturally over time.

Should the mitigation measures be implemented the low impacts of potential fuel

releases to soil and groundwater would become insignificant and the release would be

contained to the site.

Sewerage spills can introduce a wide range of potentially infectious agents to water that

may result in incidences of waterborne diseases with far reaching socio-economic

implications.

The increase in nutrients caused by sewerage spills can result in an increase in the

growth of algae, such blooms are harmful as they can remove oxygen from the water

resulting in the death of other forms of life.

5.2.2.2 Operation Phase

The potential impact from the contaminated storm water impacts to soil and groundwater

at the site should rainfall and surface water runoff leach compounds into the subsurface.

The intensity of this impact is regarded as low.

Sewerage spills can introduce a wide range of potentially infectious agents to water that

may result in incidences of waterborne diseases with far reaching socio-economic

implications.

The increase in nutrients caused by sewerage spills can result in an increase in the

growth of algae, such blooms are harmful as they can remove oxygen from the water

resulting in the death of other forms of life.



37

5.2.3 Stormwater Management

The Contractor shall take measures, to the approval of the Engineer or the Environmental

Officer, to ensure that there is no undue stormwater damage and soil erosion resulting from the

construction activities inside and outside the construction camp and Works areas.

Surface stormwater shall, where possible, not be allowed to be concentrated and flow down cut

or fill slopes or along the pipeline route without erosion protection measures being place.

Where stormwater is likely to be channelled along pipeline trenches, the length of open

trenches shall be reduced to minimise the quantity of stormwater concentrated in such a

manner. The Contractor shall provide a suitable escape route for any stormwater collecting in

the trench.

During pipe laying operations the bedding and selected fill shall be protected from stormwater

damage through the placement of temporary across trench bolsters (sandbags) at suitable

intervals to prevent scouring of the bedding / fill material.

Where material excavated from trenches is likely to create high concentrations of stormwater,

suitable escape routes shall be provided to allow stormwater to be channelled into the nearest

natural stormwater flow path.

Where a pipeline crosses a drainage way, the drainage path shall not be fully obstructed during

construction, i.e. a suitable flow path for stormwater shall be provided during the construction

process. At no point shall drainage ways be allowed to drain into open trenches.

At no point shall stormwater from the construction site be allowed to drain into private

residential or commercial properties. All stormwater shall be directed to the nearest suitable

drainage way, be it the municipal stormwater system or other natural drainage way.

Overflow and/or scour channels will be lined with stone pitching along their length and at their

points of discharge to prevent soil erosion. The point of discharge shall be where there is dense

natural grass cover. These channels shall not discharge straight down the contours but shall be

aligned at such an angle to the contours that they have the least possible gradient.

Stormwater deflection berms or stone pitched channels will be constructed at regular intervals

(plus minus every 15-30 m) diagonally across the pipeline servitude on slopes as directed by

the Engineer or Environmental Officer.



38

Where pipelines cross a steep embankment, a stormwater diversion berm will be constructed at

the top of the embankment to divert water away from the pipeline. The existing land profile will

be reconstructed and the embankment replaced with topsoil and seeded as per specifications.

Where a pipeline crosses minor drainage ways or erosion gulleys, a gabion basket or reno-

mattress will be placed upstream from the crossing at the same level as the pipeline. Stone will

be packed continuously from the gabion across the pipeline to a point where erosion will no

longer occur.

Where moderate to steep sloping land causes a water runoff erosion hazard, stone contour

berms will be constructed at 15 m intervals along the length of the pipeline trench to divert

water away from the pipeline trench.

Figure 8 Pipe crossing a steep embankment

Figure 9 Pipe crossing minor drainage line or erosion gully

Figure 10 Moderate to steep sloping land causing runoff erosion hazard



39

Where a high erosion hazard exists due to fluvial erosion at the bottom of stream channels or

dongas, the pipeline shall be encased in concrete to a level not exceeding the natural bed level

and over a distance of at least twice the width of the pipeline trench.

5.2.4 Waste (Waste stream identification, characterisation, reuse, recycling, minimisation)

The upgrading of the Southern Outfall Sewer System will only generate waste stream during

the construction phase. During which phase the concept of the waste hierarchy, illustrated in

Figure 9 must be adopted. The general waste generated during construction must be managed

by a dedicated service provider. Solid waste will be collected from sources and stored in

temporary satellite storage areas before being transported to the central sorting facility. Waste

is then sorted into different recyclable categories, and the remaining waste is disposed of at the

approved landfill site.

Figure 11 Waste Management Hierarchy



40

5.3 Operational Management

5.3.1 Organisational structure

The City of uMhlathuze Municipality will resume the responsibilities for the operational

maintenance and management of upgraded Southern Outfall Sewer once construction and

rehabilitation phases have been completed.

5.3.2 Resources and competencies

The technical staff within the City of uMhlathuze Local Municipality, as well as those of the

appointed implementing agent are well qualified to implement the environmental policies and

management plans.

5.3.3 Education and training

The independently appointed ECO must prepare and present an environmental awareness

training programme to the Contractor, Sub-contractors and employees in English and isiZulu.

The environmental awareness training programme must include the following:

The importance of compliance with all environmental policies, procedures, plans and

systems.

Understanding, and importance of, and the reasons why, the environment must be

protected.

Basic awareness and understanding of the key environmental features of the work site

and environs, particularly sensitive habitats.

The significant environmental impacts, actual or potential, as a result of their work

activities.

The mitigation measures required to be implemented when carrying out their work

activities.

The environmental benefits of positive environmental performance.

The various roles and responsibilities in achieving compliance with the environmental

policy and procedures, including emergency preparedness and response requirements.

The potential consequences of departure from specified operating procedures.

Health and safety awareness.

The Contractor must ensure that its Sub-contractors and employees (and any other third

parties) attend the course. At the discretion of the ECO and Environmental Manager,

employees involved in events of non-compliance may be given further relevant training by the

ECO.

A record of the environmental awareness training programme must be kept by the ECO and

RE.

5.3.4 Internal and external communication

Liaison with stakeholders is to be co-ordinated by the Project Engineer and the Contractor. This

will include liaison with the landowners, utility providers, neighbours, and relevant authorities.

Complaints or queries received from stakeholders and actions taken to address complaints

must be addressed in writing (with copies forwarded to the Environmental Manager and ECO).



41

5.3.5 Awareness Raising

The purpose of the environmental awareness programme is to promote ongoing environmental

awareness amongst the workforce. This can be addressed by means of the implementation of

the EMPr by the City of uMhlathuze Municipality through to the contractors and the actual

construction staff on site and should include:

General induction

Briefings / training seminars.

Notice boards, graphs, reports, etc.

Toolbox talks.

Mass meetings.

Audio visual / electronic media.

Face to face meetings.

Training on Environmental Hazards and Risks

5.4 Monitoring and Control

Monitoring is required in order to ensure that the wetlands and riparian habitats

associated with the proposed development are maintained in their current ecological

state or improved but incurring no net loss to functionality as a result of the project. It is

recommended that monitoring of the wetland and riparian areas be implemented in

accordance with the following guidelines:

5.4.1 Responsibilities for monitoring

Compliance monitoring will be the responsibility of the independently appointed, suitably

qualified ECO (Environmental Control Officer) with any additional supporting EO’s

(Environmental Officers) having the required competency skills and experience to ensure

that monitoring is undertaken effectively and appropriately.

5.4.2 Construction monitoring objectives

Key monitoring objectives during the construction phase should include:

Ensuring that management and mitigation measure are adequately implemented

to limit the potential impact on the Mkumbane and Mpangeni Rivers and their

associated wetlands and riparian areas.

Ensuring that disturbed areas have been adequately stabilised and rehabilitated to

minimise residual impacts to affected resources.

5.4.3 Record keeping

The ECO shall keep a record of activities occurring on site, including but not limited to:

Meetings attended.

Method Statements received, accepted and approved.

Issues arising on site and cases of non-compliance with the EMPr.

Corrective actions taken to solve problems that arise.

Penalties/fines issued.

Complaints from interested and affected parties.

A photographic record must be maintained throughout.



42

5.4.4 Construction phase monitoring requirements (ECO)

5.4.4.1 Pre-construction

The pre-construction phase refers to the period following final project planning and the

tender phase, leading up to, but not including, the establishment on site by the appointed

Contractor. This phase will require input from the Environmental Manager and ECO on

items such as:

Ecologically sensitive areas and plants to be conserved.

The extent of the construction servitude in restricted and unrestricted areas.

Site access (including entry and exit points).

Location of the Contractor camp, pipe storage yards, concrete batching areas,

portable toilets, construction materials and fuel storage areas.

Storm water control measures.

Waste management including waste storage and disposal sites.

5.4.4.2 During construction

This involves the monitoring of construction related impacts. Regular monitoring of the

construction activities is critical to ensure that any problems are picked up in a timeous

manner. In this regard, the following potential concerns should be taken into

consideration:

Destruction of habitat outside the construction servitude including ‘No Go’ areas.

Erosion of the bed and banks of rivers/streams.

Signs of intense or excessive erosion and/or sedimentation within, along the edge

and/or immediately downstream of the construction zone.

Erosion of disturbed soils and soil stockpiles by surface wash processes.

Sedimentation of aquatic habitats downstream of work areas.

Altering the hydrology and through flows to downstream habitat during

construction across wetlands and riparian areas.

Pollution of water resources (focus on water turbidity and hazardous substances

such as fuels, oils and cement products).

Poorly maintained and damaged erosion control measures e.g. sand bags, silt

fences and silt curtains.

These risks can be monitored visually on-site by the ECO (together with construction

staff) with relative ease and should be reported on regularly during the construction

process. Any concerns noted should be prioritised for immediate corrective action and

implemented as soon as possible.

5.4.4.3 Post-construction

This involves monitoring the effectiveness of rehabilitation activities. The ECO and

construction staff would need to perform routine checks of rehabilitation effectiveness

with the initial focus on stabilising and vegetating disturbed soils and the restoration of

natural topography. This can also be achieved through basic visual inspections

documenting inadequacies in the rehabilitation outcomes for remediation. Once complete

it is recommended that an independent suitably qualified specialist is consulted to ensure

the success of rehabilitation and to identify shortcomings that will need to be addressed.



43

5.4.5 Operation phase monitoring requirements

This involves annual monitoring of the wetland and riparian areas affected by the

development in order to ensure that operational impacts are being effectively managed.

This can also be achieved through basic visual inspections by the ECO and support staff,

documenting issues such as:

Alien Invasive Plant invasion.

Erosion headcuts.

Scouring and deposition associated with storm water runoff.

Channel incision downstream of development.

Spills, overflows or leakages from new infrastructure.

Scouring around infrastructure at wetland crossings.

Channel bank erosion and collapse (bank instability concerns).

5.5 Risk Assessment / Best Practice Assessment

This chapter documents the assessment of the potential impacts for the upgrading of the

Southern Outfall Sewer System. The assessment of potential impacts takes into account the

current environment, the proposed construction process and the findings of the specialist

studies.

Spatial extent: A description of whether the impact would occur on a scale limited to the

immediate areas of development activity (local); limited to within 5 km of the development

(area); would affect the region as a whole (region); or would occur at a national or

international scale (national/international).

Duration: A prediction of whether the duration of the impact would be short term (0 to 5

years), medium term (5 to 15 years), long term (> 15 years, with the impact ceasing after

the operational life of the development), or should be considered as permanent.

Probability of occurrence: A description of the probability of the impact actually

occurring as improbable (low likelihood), probable (distinct possibility), high (most likely)

or definite (impact would occur regardless of prevention measures).

Significance: The significance of identified impacts has been expressed qualitatively as

follows:

insignificant - the impact is insubstantial and does not require management.

low - the impact is of little importance, but may require management

medium - the impact is important, management is required to reduce negative

impacts to acceptable levels.

high - the impact is of great importance, negative impacts could render

development options or the entire project unacceptable if they cannot be reduced

to acceptable levels and/or if they are not balanced by significant positive impacts,

management of negative impacts is essential.

Status of the impact: A statement of whether the impact is positive (a benefit), negative

(a cost), or neutral.

Degree of confidence in predictions: A statement of the degree of confidence in the

predictions, based on the availability of information and specialist knowledge.



44

5.5.1 Wetlands

An assessment of the potential impacts as well as the recommended mitigation measures of

the proposed upgrading of the Southern Outfall Sewer on wetlands and riparian areas

(Appendix 14 – Wetland Studies) are provided in the table below:

Table 5 Anticipated impacts and proposed mitigation measures for wetlands and riparian areas

CONSTRUCTION PHASE

Impacts Mitigations

Disturbance and loss of riparian vegetation

and riparian habitats due to construction

activities

Consider biodiversity offset mitigation where

destruction of riparian habitat is unavoidable

Keep vegetation clearance to a minimum. No

vegetation should be cleared beyond the site itself

A walk down should precede construction to

identify red listed or protected plants

During construction, waste materials should be

stored according to best practice guidelines and

recommendations to prevent contamination of the

riparian ecosystem

Accidental spills should be reported to the ECO

immediately

Disturbance to soil and hydrology with the

resultant siltation of riparian habitats

Install temporary erosion and sediment control

measures before initial disturbance of the soil

Ensure that topsoil removal and storage are done

according to best practice principles

Reclaim and re-vegetate the disturbed areas to

approximately pre-construction capability

Following construction, the disturbed area should

be seeded with locally sourced indigenous seed

mixes to limit erosion

Avoid construction activities during the rainy

season, and especially during episodes of heavy

rains

Cumulative impacts

Cumulative impacts associated with

vegetation clearance will result in

disturbance of soils, spread of alien

invasive species and a reduction of

ecosystem services

Keep vegetation clearance to a minimum

Control soil erosion

Control alien invasive plants



disturbance of soils, increased soil erosion,

the river will become silted up, which will

could lead to flooding in certain parts of the

catchment



Reclaim and re-vegetate the disturbed areas with

locally sourced indigenous plants / seed mixes to

limit erosion



45

OPERATIONAL PHASE

Impacts Mitigations

Disturbance of riparian habitat.

(Potential pollution from sewerage spills)

Accidental spills should be contained and cleaned

up as soon as possible

Regular maintenance of sewerage line / replace

manhole covers to prevent possible spills /

blockage / vandalism

Cumulative impacts



disturbance of soils, increased soil erosion,

reduced habitat for fauna and flora species,

spread of alien invasive species and a

reduction of ecosystem services



Control and eradicate alien invasive plants

Reclaim and re-vegetate disturbed areas with

locally sourced indigenous plants / seed mixes to

limit erosion

Cumulative impacts associated with burst

sewerage pipes or blocked mains that

cause sewerage spills directly into the

rivers. This will be detrimental to the natural

environment, by upsetting the balance of

nutrients and fauna and flora in the system.

Additionally this has human health

implications, since the rivers are in an

urban environment

Regularly maintain sewerage line infrastructure by

replacing manhole covers to prevent blockage of

the system

Accidental spills should be contained and cleaned

up as soon as possible

5.6 Issues and responses from public consultation process

5.6.1 Pre-Application Consultation with the Department of Water and Sanitation (DWS)

A pre-application meeting was held on the 16th November 2015 with Ms Hassina Aboobaker

from DWS. From this meeting and through extensive correspondences with the DWS thereafter

it was confirmed that a section 21 (c) and (i) WULA will need to be submitted for the upgrading

of the Southern Outfall Sewer System. The Department’s requirements, in terms of the WULA

and supporting information were agreed through their subsequent comments submitted during

the environmental authorisation process, and through extensive consultation thereafter.

5.6.2 Other stakeholders

The applicant (City of uMhlathuze Municipality) has engaged with the various landowners and

affected persons which may be impacted on by the proposed upgrading of the Southern Outfall

Sewer System. These interested and affected persons include the following groups or

Departments:

Amafa aKwa-zulu Natali

Department of Forestry and Fisheries

Department of Transport (KZN)

Department of Water and Sanitation (KZN)

Wildlife and Environment Society of South Africa (WESSA)

uThungulu District Municipality

Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife

Department of Planning and Sustainable Development



46

Department of Economic Development, Tourism and Environmental Affairs (KZN)

City of uMhlathuze Local Municipality

5.6.3 Public Review

The WULA was made public by way of a written notification sent to all interested and affected

parties (I&AP’s) registered during the Basic Assessment process, and an advert in the Zululand

Observer (date). The notification letter and advert serves to invite all registered and potential

I&AP’s to comment on the WULA, and inform them of their right to submit written objections

within the 60 working day comment period.

All comments and/or objections received will be recorded along with the responses and

submitted to the DWS following the comment period.

5.7 Matters requiring attention / problem statement

The main issues requiring attention as discussed in more detail in Section 5.5.1 are provided

below:

Disturbance and loss of riparian vegetation and riparian habitats due to construction

activities.

Disturbance to soil and hydrology with the resultant siltation of riparian habitats.

Cumulative impacts associated with vegetation clearance will result in disturbance of

soils, spread of alien invasive species and a reduction of ecosystem services.

Cumulative impacts associated with vegetation clearance will result in disturbance of

soils, increased soil erosion, the river will become silted up, which will could lead to

flooding in certain parts of the catchment

Disturbance of riparian habitat and potential pollution from sewerage spills.

Cumulative impacts associated with burst sewerage pipes or blocked mains that cause

sewerage spills directly into the wetlands and watercourses.

5.8 Assessment of level of confidence of information

In general it can be stated that the extent and level of information available is adequate to

support the development of the IWWMP for the upgrading of the Southern Outfall Sewer

System.



47

6. WATER AND WASTE MANAGEMENT

6.1 Water and Waste Management Philosophy

The environmental philosophy that has been adopted in undertaking the activities are:

To comply with the applicable South African Government’s legislation, strategies and

procedures developed.

To minimise harm to the environment by designing, operating and closing all the

operations in an environmentally responsible manner.

To go beyond compliance over the long term.

The vision for water is:

Protect water quality.

Strive for zero use of potable water for operations.

Dedicated social obligations.

The following have been implemented or are in place to give effect to uMhlathuze’s

environmental philosophy:

An Environmental Management Plan (EMPr) is in place.

Appointment of an ECO.

Environmental training for all new staff.

Promotion of environmental awareness amongst employees and contractors.

Annual environmental auditing and reporting.

Establishment of a legal register.

Maintenance of a complaints register, clearly stating actions taken.

The environmental philosophy is applied to all aspects of water and waste management.

6.2 Options Analyses and motivation for implementation of preferred option

Although the proposed development is an upgrade of existing infrastructure and it would be

preferable to lay the new pipeline entirely alongside the existing pipeline, within the existing

servitude, this is however not entirely possible. There are various sections, each with their own

specific reasons, where the new pipeline will need to deviate from the existing. The following

alternatives were considered:

6.2.1 Route Alternatives

The section of the existing rising main along the western side of the MR230 runs through

the front gardens of residential properties. To avoid this; a registered servitude which

exists for 200 m on the opposite side of the road, and which will need to be extended by

approximately 475 m, will be used. The new rising main will then cross the MR230 using

a trenchless method, where it will join the existing servitude.

In the vicinity of Schirra Road, the existing gravity main is an above ground steel pipeline

on pipe supports which crosses a small stream, immediately after which it crosses

through the corner of three residential properties. By moving the new pipeline west,

significantly less of the pipeline will need to be above ground, and it will fall outside the

property boundaries.

At the most southerly end of Sigma Crescent, the existing gravity main also runs through

residential properties. The buildings on these properties are very close to the servitude



48

and in some cases have been extended over the pipeline. The new gravity main will be

realigned in this area to bring it outside the property boundaries.

Other alternative routes have not been considered, as further deviations from the existing

servitude are likely to result in new disturbances to residents, road users, streams and riverine

vegetation. Much of the pipeline passes very close to existing residential properties with limited

room for realignment without causing damage to existing structures and service infrastructure.

As such this assessment focuses primarily on the preferred alternative and no further

alternatives were assessed.

6.2.2 Material Alternatives

The options considered for the pipelines were unplasticised polyvinyl chloride (uPVC) and glass

reinforced polyester (GRP). GRP was considered to be more cost effective for this project and

thus is the recommended material.

6.2.3 Type of Activity

The activity for this project is replacement of the existing sewer pipeline to one of an

appropriate size to be able to cope with current and future flows. This is the only activity with

which a sewer pipeline can be associated and as such, no activity alternatives have been

assessed.

6.2.4 No-go Alternative

If the current pipeline is not upgraded to that of a suitable size, overflows and spills will become

more frequent. This will deny the local community access to adequate sanitation, which is

fundamental to personal dignity, social and psychological well-being, public health, economic

development and environmental sustainability.

It is the professional opinion of the Environmental Assessment Practitioner (EAP) team that the

no-go alternative is undesirable and unrealistic when considering the environment, the basic

needs of the community and future development in the area.

6.3 IWWMP Action Plan (Priority Actions)

This action plan covers the generic design and construction considerations and parameters for

the laying of pipelines for the Southern Outfall Sewer. This is an evolving guideline that needs

to be updated or adapted as progress is made, and successes and failures of procedures are

identified. For successful rehabilitation, it is imperative that this plan is at all times used in

conjunction with the approved EMPr.

The proposed pipelines range in size from 700 mm to 400 mm nominal diameter. All pipes will

be laid, as far as is possible, in existing pipeline servitudes. Pipelines will be laid in trenches

and backfilled to natural ground level, with the exception of the existing pipe bridge over the

Mpangeni River.

This method statement has been prepared to fulfil the Water Use Licence Application (WULA)

requirement of any structure that is to be developed and falls within a 500 m radius of an

existing wetland must apply for a Section 21(c) and (i) WULA.



49

6.3.1 Planning of Pipelines

In the planning for the design phase of the pipeline, cognisance is taken of the following

reference documents;

SABS 1200 – Standardised Specification for Civil Engineering Construction;

When planning or designing the pipeline, a holistic approach that adheres to all the tenets of

the reference or policy documents listed above will be adopted. The environmental sensitivity of

wetland areas is acknowledged and designs undertaken will take full cognisance of the

proposed impact to these areas. In addition the pipeline follows an existing servitude and runs

at times within residential properties. The rights of access of the landowners is acknowledged

and proper communication with effected persons before, during and post construction will be

maintained and the absolute minimum disruption to effected properties.

The approach to design and construction will encompass the following;

Appropriate and adequate protection of existing manmade and natural structures such as

buildings, fences, river banks, etc. in the vicinity of the pipeline will be incorporated into

the design.

The existing river bank structure will be maintained as far as is possible to reduce

disturbance to the river flow.

Existing fences will be maintained as far as is possible, but if not possible will be

temporarily removed and reinstated to the same or better condition. The time taken will

be kept to a minimum and where necessary temporary fencing will be erected to maintain

the level of security to the effected properties.

Where the pipeline crosses stormwater channels these will be designed to have no

impact on normal stormwater flow in that all pipes and concrete casing will be buried at

least 500 mm below natural channel level in the case of soft material, and level with the

natural channel in the case of hard rock material.

Manholes will be provided at all changes in grade and direction and at intervals not

exceeding 80 m to facilitate maintenance during the lifetime of the pipelines.

6.3.2 Planning of River Crossing

In the planning for the design phase of the pipe crossing, cognisance is taken of the following

reference documents;

SABS 1200 – Standardised Specification for Civil Engineering Construction;

When planning or designing the pipe crossing, a holistic approach that adheres to all the tenets

of the reference or policy documents listed above will be adopted. The environmental sensitivity

of wetland areas is acknowledged and designs undertaken will take full cognisance of the

proposed impact to these areas.

This includes the impact on all, or any, matters relating to water quality, flooding, agricultural

drainage, erosion, flora and fauna and any adjacent topographical features.

The approach to design and construction will encompass the following;

Appropriate and adequate protection of the river banks in the vicinity of the pipeline will

be incorporated into the design.

The existing river bank structure will be maintained to reduce disturbance to the river

flow.



50

The pipelines will cross rivers on the existing pipe bridge structure.

The pipe crossing has been designed to have no impact on normal river flow.

Where pipes are laid through the flood plain (1:100 year), a minimum cover level of 1

metre will be maintained.

6.3.3 Construction Methodology

Construction methodology will differ slightly depending on the nature of the river being crossed.

Perennial streams will require the temporary diversion of water flow during construction,

whereas non-perennial streams may not require flow diversion depending on the season.

6.3.3.1 A typical construction sequence is summarised hereunder:

Conduct a competent site investigation to build up an informed picture of the task.

Conduct a topographical survey of the pipeline route.

Adequate design of all the stages of construction.

All Environmental and Health and Safety requirements and good practice to be adhered

to.

6.3.3.2 Plant and Resources required for the Construction may include, inter alia:

Excavators;

Crane of sufficient lifting capacity and reach for pipe laying (if required);

Tipper trucks for the delivery of bedding material;

Compaction equipment;

Pneumatic breakers (if required);

On-site concrete batching plant (if required);

Concrete delivery vehicles for wet concrete;

Formwork, reinforcing steel and the necessary equipment and tools for assembly;

Equipment for the construction of concrete ring manholes and concrete encasement of

pipes.

6.3.3.3 Construction Method for Pipes Laid in Trenches:

This method will be used where pipes are conventionally laid in trenches and backfilled to

natural ground level.

Remove topsoil and stockpile for later use.

Excavate trench for pipeline to the design level.

If the material is firm normal excavation techniques will apply. In soft material shoring of

the trench sides may be required. In hard rock material trench excavation may require

the use of pneumatic breakers or blasting.

Install temporary dewatering pumps to keep the excavation dry (if required due to

groundwater ingress).

Construct stormwater diversion berms where required.

Place concrete to encasement if required. The top level will be determined by the

stormwater channel level.

Place bedding, lay pipe, place and compact selected fill over the pipeline.

Construct manholes, where required. Manholes will be constructed along the pipeline

route at changes in grade and direction.

Backfill to specification.

Dress backfill, topsoil and re-vegetate all exposed areas.



51

6.3.3.4 Construction Method for Crossing the Mpangeni River:

This method will be used where the pipeline crosses the Mpangeni River on the existing

concrete piers. The construction will be completed in stages as described below.

STAGE 1

Manufacture off site of new structural steel beams to be installed between existing piers.

Deliver to site and stockpile new beams for erection.

STAGE 2

Construct temporary platforms for heavy lifting equipment.

Erect and fix new steel beams between existing concrete piers.

Place and fix in place new pipeline onto steel beams.

Test and commission new pipeline.

STAGE 3

Decommission, remove and dispose old pipeline from pipe bridge.

Remove temporary platforms and reinstate the river flow to its normal path.

Dress banks, topsoil and re-vegetate all exposed areas.

6.3.4 Conclusion

All design and construction work will be carried out in accordance with the relevant construction

specifications and in compliance with the Construction Health and Safety Specifications as well

as the Construction Environmental Management Plan.

Post rehabilitation monitoring must be carried out by the onsite ECO to ensure that the wetland

rehabilitation has been successful. Vegetation growth, hydrological functioning, evidence of

erosion and deposition are some of the key areas to be checked regularly. In this way, any

problems can be rectified timeously and managed in an adaptive manner.

6.4 Control and Monitoring

6.4.1 Integrated Water Quality Management System

The Council for Science and Industrial Research (CSIR), as part of the Memorandum of

Understanding signed with the City of uMhlathuze at the end of 2014, is developing an

Integrated Water Quality Management System (IWQMS) for the City of uMhlathuze that could

later be rolled out to assist other municipalities.

As a WSP, the responsibility lies with the Municipality to ensure the provision and sustainable

delivery of safe water to underpin economic and social development. The IWQMS will

capacitate and empower the City's Scientific Services to monitor water quality in the water

distribution network, as well as other water resources, to ensure an acceptable and safe level

of water quality for our community and the protection of our environment. The system will have

components that display the following:

Management Dashboard with indicators of any out of range alerts and that assist with

status tracing of incident investigations.

Overview in geographic and graphic format that summarise bacteriological, physical and

chemical water quality and quick links to regularly used tables/graphs



52

Tables and graphs created by trending and query that are updated real time and or

regularly to give status reports to management.

Key water quality results as required for legislative compliance.

6.4.2 Mobile GIS

Linked to the IWQMS is the Mobile Geographic Information System (GIS) project. A GIS is

proven technology that has been used for many years by government departments and other

organisations as a decision support tool and information management system. The City of

uMhlathuze 's GIS is a dynamic example of this technology application in action. The City of

uMhlathuze (Richards Bay) Corporate GIS is aiming to in-cooperate Mobile GIS as part of their

Enterprise GIS service, GIS software and computer infrastructure technology continue to

expand capabilities and introduce new business opportunities.

GIS provides the capability to collect manage, manipulate, analyse and distribute information

that is tied to a location. It layers that information in a map-based environment to provide a

better visual image of location, patterns and relationships. GIS is an enabling and core

technology that complements numerous business processes, systems and data, amongst other

applications. As such, it is an integral part of the computing infrastructure that contributes to the

success of a City’s service delivery and operations.

City of uMhlathuze has identified the following capabilities to meet their mobile GIS System

requirements:

A mobile access service must allow the GIS Mobile application to run on a range of

handheld devices, and provide access to the map contents of a map document through a

web service.

The web service shall be accessible via a GSM network, including MTN and Vodacom as

a minimum.

The Mobile Data Web Access web service must be created and published on a central

GIS server maintained by uMhlathuze Municipality IT personnel.

6.4.3 Laboratory ISO 17025 accreditation

Scientific Services has embarked on a project to get formal recognition that the laboratory is

competent to perform tests and CSIR will offer their services to assist in realisation of the plan.

The CSIR has more than ten accredited laboratories throughout the country and specialise in

the assessment and maintenance of the ISO 17025 accreditation of laboratories, ensuring the

quality and accuracy of results and the service deliverables in terms of lead times required by

legislation or industry.

The laboratory aims to accredit the following tests methods:

Chemistry: Ammonia, Chloride, Nitrates, Cyanide, COD, Phenols, Ortho-Phosphates,

TDS, Turbidity, pH, Conductivity.

Microbiology: E.coli, Total Coliforms, Faecal Coliforms, Faecal streptococcus,

Heterotrophic Plate Count.

The laboratory is currently undergoing method development and validation as well as phased

implementation of ISO 17025. The laboratory is also participating in Proficiency Testing

Schemes for chemistry and microbiology in order to continually improve accuracy and precision

when compared to other laboratories.



53

As a prelude to ISO 17025 accreditation, the municipal laboratory currently meets the

requirements to register for DWS-approval per method. Future plans for the laboratory include:

Completion of the Method Validation/Verification process.

Introduction of new methodology.

Introduction of new tests.

6.4.4 Water pollution management

The Water Quality Monitoring Program (WQMP) (CR4711, 7 August 2008) has been developed

and implemented, so that council meets the statutory requirements and for the sustainability of

water resources within its area of jurisdiction.

The WQMP is the monitoring programme that the laboratory follows to conduct its testing. The

WQMP comprises the standards/guidelines and regulations that are required to effectively and

efficiently monitor the entire city’s water sources. Trend analyses will in future assist the council

to detect from early on the water quality status of the water sources and timeously put in

mitigation measures.

The WQMP will not only be utilised as a tool in decision making on water resource

management but will also be an invaluable database of reference data of individual sample

locations. The programme has been developed taking into consideration work currently being

performed in other departments. The areas detailed in Table 5 are being monitored for possible

pollution.

Table 6 Sample types being monitored by WQMP

SAMPLE TYPE DESCRIPTION

Surface Water Lakes (Cubhu and Mzingazi)

Rural/Urban Suburbs (stormwater streams)

Rivers/Streams/Canals

Industrial (stormwater streams)

Pump-stations (Streams close to pumpstations)

Coastal Water

Groundwater Municipal Cemetery

Landfill Site

Sewage Industrial Effluent (Sewage Network)

6.4.5 Monitoring of change in baseline

The monitoring of change in baseline information will be achieved through the implementation

of the EMPr (Appendix 13) and the Wetland and Riparian Area Monitoring Programme

(Appendix 23) outlined in section 5.4 of this IWWMP.



54

6.4.6 Audit and report on performance of measures

Auditing against the EA, the approved EMPr and the WUL conditions will be required during

construction of Southern Outfall Sewer upgrade. During the construction, monthly site

inspections will be undertaken and the findings and observations made during the audit site

inspection will be documented in monthly audit reports. The objectives of the environmental

audit are:

To monitor compliance with the EA, WUL and EMPr.

To ensure that construction aspects and activities have been / are being managed

appropriately.

To ensure that any potential negative impacts associated with the construction phase are

addressed.

To determine the appropriateness and adequacy of the EMPr and WUL conditions, and

the need for any licence revisions or amendments.

Internal and external audits against the water use licence must be conducted annually and the

reports submitted to DWS, who may conduct a scheduled site visit to verify the audit findings

and assess licence compliance.

The IWWMP action plan must be reviewed and updated annually, or as stipulated in the

conditions of the WUL, once issued.

6.4.7 Audit and report on relevance of action plan

Once the WULA has been approved, audits against the IWWMP and WUL will be conducted for

the duration of the construction phase of the upgrade of the Southern Outfall Sewer system.

7. CONCLUSION

7.1 Regulatory status of activity

The water uses as set out in this document require approval in order to ensure all applicable

legislation is being adhered to. This document is compiled to align with the other legal

requirements (NEMA) and should therefore be implemented in conjunction with the other

reports, specialist studies, licences and approvals.

7.2 Statement on water uses requiring authorisation, dispensing with licensing requirement

and possible exemption from regulations

In terms of Section 22(1) of the NWA, the City of uMhlathuze Municipality may only use water

without a licence if the responsible authority (DWS) has dispensed with a licence requirement.

Water use licence forms for those water uses described in Table 1 are included in this

document.

7.3 Motivation in terms of section 27(1) of the NWA

7.3.1 Existing lawful water uses

The City of uMhlathuze Municipality has no existing lawful uses applicable to the proposed

upgrading of the Southern Outfall Sewer System in Empangeni.



55

7.3.2 Contributions to redress the results of past racial and gender discrimination

The benefits of upgrading the Southern Outfall Sewer System, and having a system operating

without spills or overflows will reduce the negative aesthetics, environmental impacts and

potential risks to human health. It also allows known future planned developments to proceed

unhindered, as the pipelines’ capacities have been calculated to cope with the predicted

increase in flows.

7.3.3 Efficient and beneficial use of water in the public interest

The proposed upgrading of the Southern Outfall Sewer System is expected to have a number

of benefits for society in general both during the construction and operational phases.

Benefits to society associated with the construction phase include:

Stimulation of local economy through the provision of construction materials.

Job creation during the construction phase.

Investment into the area.

The benefit to society associated with a sewer system operating without spills or overflows is

the reduced negative aesthetics, environmental impacts and potential risks to human health.

The upgraded Southern Sewer System will also allow known future planned developments to

proceed unhindered, as the pipelines’ capacities have been calculated to cope with the

predicted increase in flows

7.3.4 The socio-economic impact of the water use/s if authorised

Through job creation and capacity building, construction is expected to result in socio economic

benefits. During the operational period, the upgrade will result in reduced negative aesthetics,

environmental impacts and potential risks to human health. It also allows known future planned

developments to proceed unhindered, as the pipelines’ capacities have been calculated to cope

with the predicted increase in flows

7.3.5 The socio-economic impact of the water use if not authorised

If the water uses applied here are not authorised and the current pipeline is not upgraded to

that of a suitable size, overflows and spills will become more frequent. This will deny the local

community access to adequate sanitation, which is fundamental to personal dignity, social and

psychological well-being, public health, economic development and environmental

sustainability

Future planned development within this area of Empangeni will also be hindered as the existing

system is already operating beyond capacity. The City of uMhlathuze Municipality has,

therefore, seen it essential to install an entirely new rising main and gravity main pipelines of a

suitable size to cope with the current and future planned sewer volumes.



56

7.3.6 Relevant catchment management strategies and local government planning frameworks

that support the proposed water use/s

The uMhlathuze Strategic Catchment Assessment and Environmental Services Management

Plan (ESMP) identified 8 main catchments in the uMhlathuze municipality: Nseleni River, Lake

Mzingazi, Harbour, City, Estuary, Lake Cubu, uMlalazi Tributaries, and the uMhlathuze River.

The aim of the ESMP is to provide the municipality with a clear understanding of activities that

need to be undertaken to protect and enhance the supply of environmental services in the area.

Each of the listed catchments has been analyzed in terms of an environmental service asset

design concept. Subsequently, three tiers of analysis have been identified:

Level 1 is the Conservation Zone and represents areas of high

biodiversity/environmental significance that need or warrant legal protection. In this zone

are included unique areas, natural habitats such as wetlands, natural forests and areas

within the 1:100m floodline.

Level 2 is the Open Space Linkage Zone and includes natural buffers for level 1 areas as

well as those areas linking level 1 areas.

Level 3 represents the Development Zone and includes those areas not included in

levels 1 and 2. Care should still be taken that development does not negatively impact on

level 1 and 2 areas. In other words, development or transformation is allowed but should

not adversely impact on environmental sustainability.

7.3.7 The likely effect of the water use on the water resource and on other water users

The implementation of this IWWMP and the EMPr, together with the upgraded sewer system,

operating without spills or overflows, will improve the functioning and integrity of the affected

wetland and riparian habitats, but ongoing management would be required to sustain these

benefits.

7.3.8 Class and resource quality objectives (rqo’s) of the water use/s

Not applicable.

7.3.9 Investments already made and to be made by the water user in respect of the proposed

water use

The City of uMhlathuze has already:

Upgraded the Hillview Pump Station ahead of the anticipated pipeline upgrade.

Undertaken the necessary engineering and civil design work for the new infrastructure.

Undertaken the Environmental Authorisation process required for the pipeline upgrade.

Undertaken much of the WULA process required for the pipeline upgrade.

The expected capital value of the proposed development upon completion

will be R 28,000,000.00.



57

7.3.10 The strategic importance of the water use/s to be authorised

The upgrading of the Southern Outfall Sewer System is required because the infrastructure has

reached the end of its design life and is operating beyond capacity. This is resulting in frequent

spillage and overflows of raw sewage.

7.3.11 The quality of water in the water resource which may be required for the reserve

and for meeting international obligations

The proposed development will have no impact on the water quantity and through proper

implementation of this IWWMP and the EMPr, the upgraded sewer system, operating without

spills or overflows, will greatly improve the current quality, functioning and integrity of the

affected wetland and riparian habitats.

7.3.12 The probable duration of any undertaking for which a water use is to be authorised

The construction impact will be of short duration (12 months).

7.4 Key Commitments

The City of uMhlathuze, is committed to the implementation of the conditions of the WUL, once

issued, which should include, but not be limited to the following conditions:

An ECO must be appointed for the duration of the construction phase to monitor and

ensure that the appropriate mitigation and rehabilitation measures are implemented.

Mitigation measures as contained in this IWWMP and the related management plans

must be adhered to.

All conditions of the Environmental Authorisation (Appendix 12) must be adhered to.

All mitigation measures contained in the approved EMPr (Appendix 13) must be adhered

to.

Construction must take place in accordance with the Construction Methodology as

provided in Appendix 20.

The implementation of the Stormwater Management Plan as provided in Appendix 21.

Construction must take place in accordance with the Civil Designs as approved by DWS

(Appendix 22).

The implementation of the monitoring requirements as provided in Wetland and Riparian

Area Monitoring Programme (Appendix 23).

The implementation of the Environmental Emergency Contingency Plan (Appendix 24)

as and when it is required.

All relevant Health and Safety legislation as required in South Africa must be strictly

adhered to.

All construction and operational related activities should comply with applicable National

and Local Legislation as well as any relevant municipal plans, by-laws/ regulations.



58

8. REFERENCES

ACER, (2014). Final Basic Assessment Report for the proposed upgrading of the Hillview

sewer rising main and southern outfall bulk sewer pipeline in Empangeni, Kwazulu-Natal.

Unpublished report.

ACER, (2014). Vegetation Assessment and Wetland Delineation for the proposed upgrading of

the Hillview sewer rising main and southern outfall bulk sewer pipeline in Empangeni, Kwazulu-

Natal. Unpublished report.

ACER, (2015). Wetland Functional Assessment for the proposed upgrading of the Hillview

sewer rising main and southern outfall bulk sewer pipeline in Empangeni, Kwazulu-Natal.

Unpublished report.

Resources Assessment (March 2000). Strategic Environmental Assessment for Water Use

Mhlathuze Catchment. Water.

uMhlathuze Local Municipality, (2015). uMhlathuze Local Municipality Integrated Development

Plan. Richards Bay: uMhlathuze Local Municipality.

SRK Consulting, (2016). Integrated Water and Waste Management Plan: Proposed Empangeni

Mega Integrated Residential Development Project: Phase 1. Unpublished report.



59

9. LIST OF APPENDICES

Appendix 1 – Applicants Company Registration Certificate

Appendix 2 – Property Title Deeds

Appendix 3 – Lease Agreements (N/A)

Appendix 4 – Property Zoning Documents

Appendix 5 – Land Claims Clearance Letter

Appendix 6 – BBEEE Certificate

Appendix 7 – DWS Application Forms

Appendix 8 – Site Plans and Maps

Appendix 9 – Master Layout Plan

Appendix 10 – Alternatives Report

Appendix 11 – Basic Assessment Report

Appendix 12 – Environmental Authorisation

Appendix 13 – Environmental Management Programme

Appendix 14 – Wetland Studies

Appendix 15 – Geotechnical Report

Appendix 16 – Aquatic Ecology Report

Appendix 17 – Geohydrological Studies (N/A)

Appendix 18 – Hydrological Studies

Appendix 19 – Water Balance (N/A)

Appendix 20 – Construction Methodology

Appendix 21 – Storm Water Management Plan

Appendix 22 – Civil Designs and Materials Test Report

Appendix 23 – Contingency Plans

Appendix 24 – Monitoring Programme

Appendix 25 – Financial Provision

PROPOSED UPGRADING OF THE HILLVIEW SEWER RISING MAIN … · Table 6 Sample types being monitored by...

Documents

Transcript of PROPOSED UPGRADING OF THE HILLVIEW SEWER RISING MAIN … · Table 6 Sample types being monitored by...