Cape Town's Desalination Project Faces Mixed Reactions

The City of Cape Towns ambitious R5 billion desalination project, set to bolster the citys water supply , has drawn both praise and scepticism, Cape town Etc reports.

The proposed plant in Paarden Eiland aims to produce up to 70 million litres of potable water per day, supporting Cape Towns growing demand as part of the New Water Programme.

While the City assures the plant will follow the latest scientific research and environmental guidelines, some experts question the projects viability, particularly regarding its environmental impact and the high cost of desalinated water. Critics argue that desalination, being one of the most expensive methods to provide drinking water, could strain the Citys resources.

Concerns have also been raised about the site's proximity to a polluted harbour and contaminated rivers, which could affect the quality of water input and lead to further ecological harm.

Additionally, the disposal of concentrated brine from the desalination process could exacerbate marine pollution.