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Sifundiso Ndlovu Chronicle Reporter—
BULAWAYO City Council yesterday commissioned a $1,3 million water purification plant at Criterion Water Works.  Acting Mayor Councillor James Sithole said the rehabilitated plant has increased drinking water by 100 percent from 35 to 70 megalitres a day.  “We have seen an increase of production from plant one from 35 to 70 megalitres a day. It has also seen an increase in efficiency with backwashing reduced and resultantly saving on energy,” he said.

Clr Sithole said the rehabilitation started in August last year and included the replacement of the filter section and valves that are used to purify water.
Director of Engineering Engineer Simela Dube said Criterion Water Works supply 70 percent of the city water.

“The refurbished plant is now operating at 90 percent of its capacity from 60 percent.
“This is a major achievement as it has also improved the quality of water, “said Eng Dube.

He added that the plant which was constructed in 1973 had outdated manual facilities which were replaced by modern automatic equipment which saves energy.
Criterion Water Works has two plants with a combined capacity of 120 megalitres a day.  Following the refurbishment of plant one there is a need to refurbish the second plant.

World Vision country director Khumbulani Ndlovu said the project has improved the wellbeing of residents.
“Consequently, water supply to two thirds of the city and the western suburbs has become more reliable,” said Ndlovu.

The local authority lifted water shedding in April after improved inflows into the city supply dams.
Bulawayo has been under water rationing for the past 20 years with the National Matabeland Zambezi Water Project seen as the lasting solution to the city’s water woes.