Upgrade awaits the Meul pump station

GEORGE NEWS - Frequent and costly breakdowns at the Meul pump station are soon to be something of the past as its upgrade is imminent.

The Meul sewage pump station, one of George's most critical pump stations, has in recent years experienced frequent and costly breakdowns that threaten the integrity of the sewage system it serves as well as the surrounding environment. It is more than 30 years old.

However, it is soon to be upgraded to, among others, provide more energy-efficient pumps that will meet future flow needs and to provide additional safety, as an emergency power generator will be added to keep the installation operational during load shedding.

The contract value is approximately R31,67-million and the new upgrade is expected to be completed in the next 12 months. George Municipality's Civil Services Department confirmed that the appointed contractor has already started with the design work of the upgrade.

The upgrade comprises three main components: civil engineering, mechanical refurbishment and electrical.

"The civil engineering upgrades will include repairs to the pump station including refurbishment of the internal of the pump station, a new Motor Control Centre (MCC) room, new generator room and new valve chamber and sump modifications," said Gerard de Swardt, a project manager in the department.

"Mechanical refurbishment will incorporate upgrading of the pump station including pumps, pipework, valves, screens, equipment, while the electrical work comprises electronic and instrumentation refurbishment including new bulk electrical, motor control centre, standby generator, instrumentation, and related cables."

It is envisaged that there would be no disruption in services during the construction. "The public will be informed through media and George Municipality's communication channels should there be any planned disruptions in any related services," said De Swardt.

Access to the site will be strictly controlled. No members of the public will be allowed to enter the working area. The site will comply with the relevant Covid-19 regulations.

Access to the site will be strictly controlled. No members of the public will be allowed to enter the working area.