Transforming Durban’s Bulk Water Supply
eThekwini Water and Sanitation (EWS) is replacing a failing 70-year-old concrete bulk water artery with a modern steel pipeline to secure water delivery for over 1.2 million people in Durban’s southern region. The Southern Aqueduct Project, spanning 24 km, will supply 33 reservoirs and ensure clean drinking water reaches communities from Reservoir Hills and Westville to Umlazi, Folweni, and Marion Hills.
At the heart of this transformation is AVK Valves Southern Africa, whose advanced valve solutions are critical to the system’s resilience, maintainability, and operational efficiency. AVK Valves Southern Africa is proud to contribute to a project that embodies engineering innovation, operational resilience, and local empowerment. Together with EWS and its partners, AVK is helping to safeguard Durban’s water future.
AVK’s Contribution
AVK Valves Southern Africa supplied and supported the installation of a number of valves across Work Packages 1–4, ensuring precise flow control, isolation, and long-term reliability.
Key products include:
- Butterfly Valves (Double Offset, Double Flanged with Gearboxes) DN600 - DN1600 PN16
- Series 820 Butterfly Valves
- Wedge Gate Valves
- AVK RSV Gate Valves
These valves are engineered to handle the high pressures and volumes of bulk water transfer, while enabling safe maintenance and minimizing downtime. Their robust design ensures the aqueduct can withstand operational stresses and future demand growth.
Driving Local Participation
AVK’s involvement goes beyond supply. By delivering advanced valve solutions backed with engineering expertise, quality assurance, and seamless project integration, AVK Valves Southern Africa ensures world‑class reliability and performance. Civil works and fittings are executed by South African firms, directly supporting the 30% Contract Participation Goal, embedding the project’s benefits within the local economy, and driving meaningful skills transfer. This collaborative approach strengthens South Africa’s industrial base while delivering infrastructure that lasts.
Operational Resilience Through AVK
- Intelligent Design: AVK valves integrate seamlessly into the steel pipeline, enabling sectional isolation and efficient reservoir management.
- Maintainability: Gearbox operated butterfly valves allow safe, controlled operation, reducing strain on municipal teams.
- Reliability: Proven AVK technology ensures uninterrupted water delivery to millions, even under demanding conditions.
Project Timeline
- April 2025: Construction began with Work Packages 1 & 2 (8 km).
- April 2026: Commissioning of Work Package 1 (90% complete).
- May 2026: Commissioning of Work Package 3.
- June 2026: Commissioning of Work Package 2 (currently 74% complete).
- End 2026: Completion of all six packages, delivering the full 24 km pipeline.
The Southern Aqueduct is more than a pipeline replacement it is a future proof water delivery system. AVK Valves Southern Africa’s world class valve solutions are the backbone of this upgrade, ensuring durability, resilience, and operational excellence. By combining engineering innovation with local industrial participation, AVK Valves Southern Africa is proud to play a pivotal role in securing sustainable water delivery for more than 1.2 million people in Durban’s southern region ensuring reliability and resilience for generations to come.
