Construction work has resumed on the Liverpool Block pipeline project in Lenasia South Extension 1, with TILBIT Construction saying the project is now 60% complete and on track for the targeted 30 September completion date.
The R24-million Johannesburg Water project resumed in September after delays previously reported by GLOBE POST. The project forms part of a three-phase pipeline upgrade aimed at improving the area’s ageing water infrastructure and reducing recurring pipe bursts.
Tilbit said its teams are currently carrying out horizontal drilling at road crossings while continuing with pipe installation during Phase One along Newton Street.
The latest progress comes after the project faced several setbacks. In June, concerns were raised over unpaid wages involving general workers, while further delays were reported in August. Tilbit has since said all outstanding payments to general workers were settled on 30 July and that workers have been paid.
The contractor also previously told Globe Post that it had experienced no further challenges since returning to site. However, the continuation of construction has also brought new concerns about temporary disruptions in the affected area.
Residents in the Newton and Liverpool areas reported disruptions last Thursday, including an electricity interruption, while water later spread across part of the block. The incidents raised concerns about how construction activities are affecting existing services and access in the area.
Globe Post subsequently raised the concerns with the contractors. Tilbit said it is aware of the disruptions and explained that they occur when drilling is taking place as part of the construction work. The contractor also understands the impact the disruptions have on residents and will do its best to minimise them while the work continues.
The project also includes the installation of modern HDPE pipes, the replacement of ageing valves and fire hydrants, and the use of trenchless construction methods. Tilbit said it was not aware of any disconnected fire hydrants and that new above-ground hydrants would be installed in areas where it is working.
With construction now progressing towards the end-of-September target, residents can expect continued activity in the area as the contractor works on the remaining sections of the project.
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