⎪ Innovative engineering ⎪
ing winter construction periods, requiring round-the-clock engineering supervision and close coordination between contractors, engi- neers and project authorities. Louis Joubert, Resident Engineer on the Senqu Bridge proj- ect, says the structure represents both tech- nical ambition and long-term national value. “The Senqu Bridge reflects the engineer - ing ambition behind the LHWP. Beyond the technical achievement, these structures carry real legacy value for Lesotho. As the Highlands landscape evolves, the bridges be- ing built today will stand as enduring symbols of infrastructure excellence and the long-term impact of the project for communities across the region,” notes Joubert. Beyond its engineering significance, the Senqu Bridge will play a critical role in main- taining access to the north-eastern region of Lesotho, including the regional capital of Mokhotlong. Once the Polihali reservoir is impounded, the existing low-level crossings will be submerged, making the new bridge essential for maintaining this strategic na- tional route. The project also forms part of a broader infrastructure programme supporting the development of the LHWP Phase II, which is designed to enhance regional water security while generating long-term economic benefits for Lesotho. Significant opportunities have also been provided for local engineers and technical professionals. Most of the supervision team on the bridge project consists of Basotho engineers and young professionals who have been mentored throughout the construction process. Through partnerships with the LHDA and other project stakeholders, the initiative helps build long-term engineering capacity in the country. The Senqu Bridge is expected to become a landmark structure within Lesotho’s evolving infrastructure landscape. As the surrounding reservoir fills and the region’s development accelerates, the bridge will continue to serve as a critical transport link while supporting new economic and tourism opportunities. The Polihali Transfer Tunnel Zutari is also contributing to the LHWP Phase II through the design and construction supervision of the Polihali Transfer Tunnel. Stretching approximately 34 km beneath Lesotho’s mountainous highlands, this Tunnel forms a critical link between the Polihali and Katse reservoirs, strengthening the water transfer system that supports regional water and hydropower security. The tunnel incorporates a sophisticated design comprising a five-metre-diameter, segmentally lined, hard-rock TBM-bored tun- nel, intake works, and a gate shaft upstream of the new 165 m high Polihali Dam, as well
Hard-rock tunnel boring was used to create the 5 m diameter Polihali Transfer Tunnel.
as outlet works and a lake tap into the Katse Reservoir. Additional access tunnels and as- sociated infrastructure support the system's construction and future operation. Unlike visible infrastructure such as bridges and dams, the Polihali Transfer Tunnel represents an engineering achievement large- ly hidden from view. Yet the underground system is among the most significant elements of the entire LHWP Phase II programme. Freddie Laas, Project Manager for the MSKC Joint Venture overseeing the tunnel’s implementation, says the project requires a high level of coordination, planning and tech- nical precision. “Delivering infrastructure at this scale requires careful coordination across engineering disciplines, contractors and proj- ect stakeholders to ensure that safety, qual- ity and environmental stewardship remain central throughout the construction process.” Laas adds that projects of this complexity extend beyond engineering alone. “Large- scale infrastructure programmes involve many moving parts, from geological condi- tions and environmental considerations to social and economic responsibilities. Successfully managing these elements is what ultimately ensures that the project delivers long-term value for both Lesotho and the broader region.” Although largely invisible once completed, the Polihali Transfer Tunnel will play a vital role in the long-term operation of the LHWP, ensuring efficient transfer of water through the system while supporting the continued development of water infrastructure across Southern Africa. As construction progresses on Phase II of the project, the tunnel stands as a powerful example of the engineering innovation and strategic collaboration required to deliver infrastructure on a truly regional scale. Strengthening regional water security The LHWP is a multi-phase bi-national
initiative between the Kingdom of Lesotho and the Republic of South Africa designed to harness the water resources of Lesotho’s highlands through a network of dams, tunnels and associated infrastructure. While the proj- ect supports water supply to South Africa’s economic hub, it also generates substantial economic benefits for Lesotho through roy - alties, infrastructure development and long- term employment opportunities. Projects of this scale also create opportu- nities for collaboration between international engineering specialists and local profession- als, contributing to skills development and long-term technical capacity within the region. Zutari has been involved in infrastruc- ture development in Lesotho for decades, supporting projects across water, transport and environmental sectors. The company’s participation in these projects forms part of its broader contribution to the LHWP pro- gramme and to infrastructure development across the region. Tlhabeli Ralebitso, CEO: Africa for Zutari, says projects like the Senqu Bridge and the Polihali Transfer Tunnel demonstrate how strategic infrastructure investment can de- liver long-term value for both Lesotho and the broader region. “The LHWP stands as one of Africa’s most significant examples of infrastructure delivered through partnership and shared vision.” “These projects reflect not only engineer - ing excellence, but also the long-term impact that infrastructure investment can have in strengthening regional water security and hydro-electric power generation, enabling economic growth and supporting communi- ties. Zutari is proud to contribute our exper- tise to projects that help shape sustainable futures for Lesotho and Southern Africa,” Ralebitso concludes: https://www.zutari.com
May-June 2026 • MechChem Africa ¦ 43
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