Featured Post

NEWS: To what extent are Africa's megacities equipped and prepared to cope with the impacts of climate change?

The health repercussions of climate change in African cities require immediate attention. These urban areas find themselves on the front lines, facing rising temperatures and worsening air pollution. To safeguard both people and the environment, governments must act decisively. They must channel investments into green infrastructure, champion clean energy initiatives, and bolster healthcare systems. African cities face substantial health challenges due to climate change, including flood risks, droughts, and the spread of vector-borne diseases. Droughts are a significant cause of mortality globally and are indirectly linked to extreme heat. Indirect health issues arise through food-borne and vector-borne diseases, non-communicable illnesses, displacement, and mental health stressors. Air pollution intensifies with fossil fuel combustion, contributing to over 5 million deaths annually. African cities have responded by implementing policies to minimize resource consumption and reduce gree

NEWS: Why do we strive for modern infrastructure yet we struggle with basic issues like leaky pipes?

Fixing pipe leaks does not require complex solutions like rocket science, satellites, or artificial intelligence. Instead, the solution involves digging holes in the ground and repairing the pipes effectively as part of a meticulously planned and adequately funded program managed by skilled engineers.


This hardhatNEWS article describes the alarming state of water loss in South Africa, with nearly half of the country's purified water supply lost to leaks, theft, or non-payment. Durban, Johannesburg, and other major cities are experiencing the highest losses, exceeding 40% in some cases. 

The government's response has been to plan the construction of new dams, such as the Polihali Dam in Lesotho, while municipalities are increasing utility bills to compensate for lost revenue. However, experts argue that fixing leaking pipes and infrastructure is a more cost-effective and sustainable solution. The article also highlights the risks associated with intermittent water supply, such as damage to infrastructure and public health hazards. The solution, according to water engineers, lies in proper pipe maintenance and reducing pressure levels in tap water pipelines to ensure a continuous supply.

Why is it that we have built some of the most complex infrastructure projects yet we seem to be struggling with the no to so complex leaky pipes?

The full hardhatNEWS article can be read on the Daily Maverick

Follow our WhatsAPP channel for informative content and discussions on the hardhatINDUSTRY and updates on hardhatVACANCIES. Click here to view and follow.


Comments