Mokhotlong: The recently launched Senqu Bridge in Mokhotlong in the Kingdom of Lesotho represents a landmark achievement under Phase II of the Lesotho Highlands Water Project, Cabinet said on Thursday.
According to South African Government News Agency, the new bridge will ensure uninterrupted access to Mokhotlong, Sani Pass, and surrounding areas. Addressing a post-Cabinet media briefing, Minister in the Presidency Khumbudzo Ntshavheni stated that the project has contributed significantly to the upliftment of the economy of Lesotho. South Africa has constructed hundreds of kilometres of roads to improve access to remote dam sites and has provided royalty payments of approximately R3.8 billion annually to Lesotho's fiscus under the Lesotho Highlands Water Project.
The Lesotho Highlands Water Project ensures Gauteng has access to bulk water through the Vaal Water system, while Lesotho benefits from hydropower generation and supports the provision of potable water, irrigation, fisheries, and tourism promotion, Ntshavheni added.
Last month, President Cyril Ramaphosa attended the official launch of the bridge, describing it as a testament to the deep-seated relationship between the two countries. The Senqu Bridge, constructed at an estimated cost of R2.4 billion, is the largest of three major crossings being developed under Phase II of the LHWP.
Measuring approximately 825 metres in length and rising about 90 metres above the river valley, the bridge will play a critical role in maintaining connectivity across the Polihali Reservoir once water levels rise. The Senqu Bridge is part of the broader LHWP, a multi-phased, treaty-based partnership between South Africa and Lesotho established on 24 October 1986 to address water security, energy generation, and socio-economic development.
Last week, President Ramaphosa called for urgent, coordinated action across all three spheres of government to resolve South Africa's deepening water crisis, warning that poor municipal performance is placing an increasing burden on ordinary citizens.