THE Kariba Dam rehabilitation project is progressing well following the completion of a controlled leakage test on Sluice 5.
In a statement, the Zambezi River Authority (ZRA) said the milestone followed the successful completion of similar tests on sluices 1, 2, 3 and 4.
It said the programme was left with only Gate 6.
“The leakage test is a routine but critical engineering procedure, confirming that the newly-refurbished gate is functioning precisely as designed. It marks another important step forward in the delivery of the project, which is operating on a fixed timeline,” ZRA said.
The test, conducted on Wednesday last week, involved the safe release of approximately 1 500 cubic metres of water in a small and carefully managed operation.
The project's scope includes the refurbishment of the spillway, construction of a cofferdam, and stabilisation of the plunge pool, all critical components in ensuring the dam's structural integrity and longevity.
The Kariba Dam rehabilitation project is co-financed by the European Union, World Bank, African Development Bank, Swedish International Development Co-operation Agency and the Zimbabwean and Zambian governments.
The project's successful execution is crucial for the continued operation of the Kariba Dam, a vital source of hydroelectric power for Zambia and Zimbabwe.
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With the project nearing completion, ZRA is optimistic about the dam's continued contribution to energy security and economic prosperity in the region.
