Pongolapoort Dam
By Karabo Marifi
KwaZulu-Natal residents urged to prepare as rising water levels force controlled release from Jozini Dam
The Department of Water and Sanitation (DWS) has announced plans to release water from the Pongolapoort Dam, commonly known as Jozini Dam, due to heavy rainfall that has led to excessive inflows. The dam has reached 90.8% of its capacity, prompting authorities to implement emergency flood management measures.
This controlled water release is intended to protect the structural integrity of the dam and prevent uncontrolled spillage or potential dam failure, which could pose serious risks to nearby communities.
Imminent Water Release to Safeguard Communities
The DWS confirmed that if inflows persist at the current rate, the controlled release of water from Pongolapoort Dam could begin by Friday, 14 March 2025. However, officials have cautioned that the situation remains fluid and unpredictable—if inflows increase significantly, releases might begin earlier, while reduced inflows may delay the operation.
“The decision to release water is a necessary measure to maintain dam safety and protect surrounding communities from potential flooding risks. The current inflow slightly exceeds the outflow, and dam levels continue to rise steadily,” the department said in a statement.
As a precaution, residents living downstream of the dam have been advised to exercise extreme caution, as the increased flow into the Pongola River is expected to impact low-lying areas, floodplains, low-level bridges, and agricultural activities.
Communities at Risk
The DWS has identified several communities in northern KwaZulu-Natal that could be affected by the water release, including:
• Jozini, Makhathini Flats
• Welcome, Hlazane, Mboza, KwaShukela, Mzinyeni
• Skhemelele, KwaLulwane, Bhekabantu, Mamfene
• Shemula, Hlokohloko, Madonela, and Ndumo
These areas lie along the Pongola River and are susceptible to localized flooding when water levels rise. The department has advised farmers and residents to take necessary precautions to safeguard livestock, property, and infrastructure.
Flood Management Protocols in Place
The DWS reassured the public that it is closely monitoring the situation and following established flood management protocols to minimize disruption. The department is coordinating efforts with:
• The National Disaster Management Centre (NDMC)
• Provincial Disaster Management Centres (PDMCs)
• Affected local municipalities
• Lower Pongola Water User Association, which represents farmers, local businesses, and water-dependent industries in the region.
This multi-stakeholder approach aims to ensure timely updates and clear communication with communities and businesses that rely on the Pongola River for irrigation and water supply.
Impact on Agriculture and Water Security
The Pongola River floodplain is a vital agricultural region, supplying water to small- and large-scale farmers who cultivate sugarcane, maize, and vegetables. The release of water from Pongolapoort Dam is expected to affect crop production and livelihoods, as floodwaters could damage irrigation systems and plantations.
Farmers have been urged to monitor alerts from local authorities and prepare for temporary disruptions.
Despite concerns about flooding, water management experts emphasize that controlled releases are essential to prevent catastrophic failures, which could result in unpredictable and dangerous flooding.
Historical Context: The Role of Pongolapoort Dam
The Pongolapoort Dam, constructed in the 1960s, plays a crucial role in flood control, irrigation, and water supply in northern KwaZulu-Natal. The dam, which is South Africa’s largest arch dam, was originally built to provide water security for farmers and local communities.
However, unpredictable weather patterns in recent years—including prolonged droughts and heavy seasonal rainfall—have put increased pressure on dam operations. The current situation highlights the delicate balance between water conservation, flood prevention, and community safety.
Government’s Commitment to Infrastructure Safety
The DWS reiterated that the proactive release of water aligns with the government’s commitment to dam safety management and climate resilience.
“This situation underscores the importance of balancing water storage with safety measures, ensuring the well-being of communities, infrastructure, and ecosystems,” the department stated.
South Africa has over 5,000 registered dams, many of which require constant monitoring to maintain their structural integrity—especially during periods of extreme weather variability.
Future Outlook and Monitoring
Authorities have reassured residents that ongoing assessments will guide further decision-making regarding water releases. If inflows continue to rise, additional releases may be necessary beyond the planned operation.
The department has also committed to providing regular updates and ensuring that local disaster management teams are prepared to assist affected communities.
Residents are strongly urged to stay informed through official government channels, including:
• The Department of Water and Sanitation (DWS) website and social media pages
• Local municipal offices and disaster management centers
• Radio broadcasts and SMS flood alerts
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