As floodwaters recede TasWater takes stock

TasWater’s priority both during the flood emergency and now in the clean-up phase is the maintenance of public health and the safety of our crews and the community.

Acting CEO Dean Page says a large number of water and sewage pump stations and treatment plants were impacted and crews have worked around the clock to maintain essential services bring systems unable to fully operate during the floods, back on line.

“The Forth Water Treatment Plant suffered extensive damage and like most of our treatment plants was closed down due to the floods, with water stored in reservoirs continuing to supply customers without interruption,” Mr Page said.

“Increased inflows have compromised the quality of some smaller water systems with high turbidity levels leading to the introduction of temporary boil water alerts as a health precaution.”

Ongoing tests across the water network will continue to ensure water quality is maintained.

“A significant number of larger sewage treatment plants were completely inundated.”

With many of our small facilities rendered inoperable due to power failures in the face of the rising water.

“Damage across all our facilities has been extensive with repairs being carried out on electrical switchboards, pumps and water and sewer pipelines to return full service as soon as possible. Approximately 20 sewage pump stations remain impacted or damaged but the majority will be restored to service within the coming days and as water levels allow.

“With very large inflows recorded our dam network is being actively monitored to ensure the water storages operate as they should.”

Damage to fences, maintenance buildings and equipment stores has also been significant and these are being assessed to ensure our facilities are secure and the public remains safe around our sites.

“We are also committed to working with industry stakeholders such as oyster farmers who have been impacted by storm water and sewerage discharges.

“I appreciate the assistance TasWater has received from emergency services, our local government partners and government agencies during the flood emergency.”

“Restoring services is now taking precedence and we appreciate the patience of our customers as we prioritise our responses.”
Acting TasWater CEO Dean Page