THE Water Management Authority (WARMA) is developing water harvesting and storage regulation guidelines which will ensure dams are well maintained and safe. Speaking at a stakeholders’ validation of the National Dam Safety guidelines in Lusaka, WARMA Director General, Misozi Ngulube, said the final framework should take into account climate variations, emergency plans and evacuation in […]

THE Water Management Authority (WARMA) is developing water harvesting and storage regulation guidelines which will ensure dams are well maintained and safe.

Speaking at a stakeholders’ validation of the National Dam Safety guidelines in Lusaka, WARMA Director General, Misozi Ngulube, said the final framework should take into account climate variations, emergency plans and evacuation in the event of a disaster.

Ms Ngulube stated that dam owners must be obligated to have dam safety management plans in place while dam classification must be also brought on board.

She also called for the Dam Safety Guidelines to be aligned with regional frameworks on water as dams contribute significantly to economic development through electricity generation, agriculture, manufacturing and domestic water supply.

The WARMA Director emphasised that dams should be operated in line within the framework of the law so that water storage facilities remain safe throughout their lifespan.