By Admore Mbonda in Kariba
KARIBA — The Zambezi River Authority (ZRA) will carry out a controlled leakage test on Sluice 3 at Kariba Dam on July 2, 2025, as part of the ongoing Kariba Dam Rehabilitation Project (KDRP).
The test marks a crucial milestone in efforts to strengthen the dam’s infrastructure, which supports power generation and water management across the region.
“This test follows the successful procedures on Sluices 1 and 2 and is a standard engineering measure to confirm the integrity of the refurbished gate,” said a ZRA spokesperson.
During the operation, approximately 1,500 cubic meters of water will be released in a carefully managed flow — an amount equivalent to powering turbines for about three seconds.
A team of engineers will supervise the process to ensure everything runs safely and smoothly.
The KDRP includes upgrades to the plunge pool, spillway, and coffer dam. These improvements are designed to enhance the dam’s structural integrity and ensure it can manage high water volumes effectively. The coffer dam enables essential repair work without disrupting operations.
ZRA has urged the public not to panic. “This is a planned and safe procedure. There is no cause for alarm,” the authority assured.
With the rehabilitation project progressing steadily, ZRA remains focused on prolonging the lifespan of Kariba Dam for the benefit of future generations.
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