NamWater Condemns Vandalism and Theft of Electricity Infrastructure
NamWater, the primary water utility in Namibia, has denounced the act of vandalism and theft that led to a significant loss of water supply in Walvis Bay. On Saturday night, the Ruby Main Overhead Powerline, which supplies electricity to critical water infrastructure, was vandalized and key equipment stolen. This incident resulted in a 650m3/hr reduction in water supply to the area, underscoring the importance of uninterrupted access to water services. Temporary measures, including water supply from alternative boreholes, were implemented to mitigate the impact of the incident.
Key Takeaways:
- The vandalism and theft of the Ruby Main Overhead Powerline compromised essential water services in Walvis Bay, affecting over 650m3/hr of water supply.
- The incident highlights the critical role of the Swartbank and Rooibank boreholes in providing water to the area, with the powerline's electricity supply being essential for their operation.
- Temporary balancing measures were implemented using High Dune and Dorop South boreholes, resulting in a reduced flow of 200m3/hr.
- The Namibian Police Force and Erongo Regional Electricity Distributor responded quickly to the incident, but the perpetrators managed to evade capture.
- Erongo RED successfully restored power to the affected infrastructure by 17h00 on Sunday, and water supply was resumed thereafter.
- NamWater appeals to the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity near water infrastructure to prevent similar incidents in the future.
Statistics:
- 650m3/hr: The loss of water supply resulting from the vandalism and theft of the Ruby Main Overhead Powerline.
- 200m3/hr: The reduced flow of water supplied by the High Dune and Dorop South boreholes during the temporary balancing measures.
- 23h00: The approximate time when the vandalism and theft of the ruby Main Overhead Powerline occurred on Saturday night.
Sources:
- NamWater Public Notice (no date mentioned)
- NAMPA, 23 June 2025