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A recent study has revealed a concerning vulnerability confronting coastal cities worldwide. Steadily rising sea levels are altering groundwater, rendering it shallower, more saline, and corrosive. This gradual deterioration represents a substantial threat to the extensive networks of underground urban infrastructure that underpin modern city life. A recent study revealed a grave threat faced by coastal cities worldwide due to rising sea levels. This phenomenon is causing coastal groundwater to become shallower, saltier, and more corrosive, damaging buried city infrastructure designed for stable groundwater conditions. This leads to foundation weakening, pipe leaks, and electrical problems, resulting in costly repairs, health risks, and city disruptions. Over 1,500 major cities are already experiencing the negative impacts, with over a billion people at risk. The study urges proactive measures such as early warning systems, developing corrosion-resistant materials, and reimagining city
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NEWS: SAICE calls for proper management of infrastructure following Jagersfontein tragedy

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Following the tragedy at Jagersfontein SAICE says we can avoid many man-made disasters if we start working together to steer funds towards regular maintenance by trained engineers.


“We understand that investigations are under way with the appointment of a task team to determine the cause of the incident and the extent of the damage. The relevant officials are still assessing the total damage to infrastructure.

"While we await the findings of the investigation, this incident highlights the importance of investing in maintenance of existing infrastructure in South Africa, which SAICE continues to be a strong advocate for,” the entity says.

It posits that, through collaborative efforts and refocusing on how priorities are managed, solutions can be found collaboratively to mitigate challenges experienced by municipalities and owners of infrastructure.

“We can avoid many man-made disasters if we start working together to steer funds towards regular maintenance by trained engineers,” it says.

SAICE notes that, while government builds capacity, there is a need for interim measures to ensure civil infrastructure investment and maintenance are monitored and audited.


“Instead of infrastructure deteriorating soon after completion, we need to build infrastructure to last, while also prioritizing maintenance of aging infrastructure. We need to work on standardization for durable infrastructure across South Africa.

SAICE says it has representation at the affected site in the Free State and that it is also evaluating the damage.

"We eagerly await the outcome of the investigations. We are available, and on call, to assist in advising relevant stakeholders of a way forward in addressing these critical matters,” it adds.

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