No plans to close Rhodes University due to water crisis

Rhodes University
Rhodes University

Contrary to recent media reports, Rhodes University is not about to shut down. Treated water is being supplied from Settlers Dam and whilst the dam level is very low, the University is closely monitoring the situation, and has thrown its full weight behind the plan to prolong this supply for as long as possible as per the water crisis plan released by the Municipality.

Furthermore, a plan has been developed for the time if and when Settlers Dam were to run dry, in which case treated water will be supplied to the entire City on a rotational basis from the Glen Melville Dam via the James Kleynhans Water Treatment Works (JKWTW).

The University has been working closely with various arms of government and the Municipality to get the JKWTW functioning optimally prior to the potential Settlers Dam outage.

The University is obviously concerned about the recent shut-down of the JKWTW due to the inflows of highly turbid water, and is liaising with the relevant authorities in this regard. The University is also assisting with the supply of clean water to communities on the eastern side of town.

Regarding the statement from Rhodes University Vice Chancellor, Dr Sizwe Mabizela, which states "Rhodes University will have to close its doors" attention is drawn to the fact that the original statement indicates that this will only happen in the absence of reasonable water sources.  As already mentioned, the University is monitoring the situation very closely.