Key components of the Tunnel Boring Machine (TBM) have arrived at the Polihali construction site, marking a significant step forward in Phase II of the Lesotho Highlands Water Project.
The delivery follows a complex logistical operation that began in China on 3 May. The components were shipped to South Africa aboard the specialised cargo vessel KONG QUE SONG, arriving at the Port of Durban on 16 June. The machine was transported in multiple oversized parts, each requiring careful handling due to varying size, weight, and regulatory requirements.
From Durban, the components were moved to Lesotho by Primate Logistics and its Lesotho-based arm, Orange Primate Logistics, which specialises in transporting abnormal loads. The process involved coordination with multiple authorities for permits, route planning, and adherence to safety standards, particularly due to the challenging mountainous terrain.
Transport operations began with loading of the machine’s key components, including the cutterhead and support shield, on 25 June. The team remains on alert due to winter weather conditions, with contingency plans in place to pause transport if snow or rain poses safety risks.
The TBM will be used to excavate a water transfer tunnel as part of the binational infrastructure project between Lesotho and South Africa.
Phase II of the Lesotho Highlands Water Project, building on the success of Phase I completed in 2003, aims to increase water supply to South Africa’s Gauteng region and enhance hydroelectricity generation in Lesotho. The current supply rate of 780 million cubic meters per annum will be incrementally increased to over 1,270 million cubic meters per annum, further advancing Lesotho’s goal of securing an independent electricity source to meet domestic needs.
Images courtesy of Lesotho Highlands Development Authority (LHDA) linkedin page
