Vaal Dam
By Thobeka Makume
The Department of Water and Sanitation opened one sluice gate at the Vaal Dam on Thursday to increase outflows and manage the dam’s rising water levels. This action was taken in response to continuous rainfall, with the dam currently at 106.14%. The department aims to reduce the water level to a safer 105%, ensuring the stability of this vital water source for Gauteng. The situation is under close watch, with further steps planned if needed.
Why the Sluice Gate Was Opened
The Vaal Dam, which supplies most of Gauteng’s water needs, has seen its levels rise due to ongoing rainfall across the region. On Thursday at 12pm, the department opened one sluice gate to release excess water and prevent potential overflow risks. In its statement, the department explained, “The opened sluice gate is expected to release between 110 to 130 cubic metres per second (mᵌ/s) and will remain open over the long weekend.” This controlled release is designed to bring the dam’s water level down to 105%, a manageable target given the current conditions.
Previously opened outlet valves, which released 60.1 cubic metres per second (mᵌ/s), have been closed. “All outlet valves that were previously opened and were releasing 60.1 cubic metres per second (mᵌ/s) of water at the Vaal Dam have now been closed because they do not have the required capacity to release the required volumes,” the department said. The sluice gate, with its higher capacity, is now the primary tool for managing the dam’s outflows.
A Safe and Controlled Release
The department has assured the public that the water release is within safe operational limits. “The current water release by [a] single sluice gate is within the safe operational limits and is not expected to lead to overtopping of riverbanks downstream,” the statement read. This is welcome news for communities along the Vaal River, who depend on stable water levels for farming and daily life.
To support this effort, the department is also managing the Bloemhof Dam, located downstream. Outflows there were increased to 250 mᵌ/s from 10am on Thursday. “At Bloemhof Dam, outflows have also been increased to 250 mᵌ/s from 10am today through the pipes and to allow for the extra flows that are expected from Vaal Dam in about three to four days and to keep the dam below 100%,” the department noted. Bloemhof Dam is currently at 97.6%, and these adjustments aim to maintain it below full capacity.
What This Means for Gauteng and Beyond
The Vaal Dam is a cornerstone of water supply for Gauteng, supporting millions of residents, businesses, and farmers. Keeping its water levels in check is essential not only to prevent flooding but also to ensure a steady water supply during drier months. The department’s proactive approach—opening the sluice gate and monitoring conditions—shows a commitment to balancing these needs.
A sluice gate is a large, movable barrier that controls water flow in a dam. By opening it, the department can release excess water in a controlled way, reducing pressure on the dam’s structure. This is especially important during heavy rainfall, when inflows can quickly push water levels beyond safe limits.
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