The City of Cape Town is making continuous efforts to maintain the Sir Lowry’s Pass River. Maintenance of the rivers, canals and waterways took place all year round, with operations ramping up pre-winter in preparation for seasonal rainfall.
One of these critical interventions was initiated by the Water and Sanitation Directorate of the City of Cape Town, that has recently been completed at Sir Lowry’s Pass River in Gordon’s Bay. The work done reduced flood risks and improved water quality during the current rainy season.
The Sir Lowry’s Pass River originates at an elevation of around 1200 meters above sea level in the Hottentots Holland Mountain Nature Reserve. The river is approximately 12 kms long.
Reportedly, Catchment Stormwater and River Management (CSRM) Branch of the City of Cape Town recently conducted cleaning of this river, among several others, to ensure the efficient flow of water and to prevent blockages. The project was concluded on une 13, 2025 at a cost of R150,000.
Member of the Mayoral Committee for Water and Sanitation – Councillor Zahid Badroodien said that working to clear the Sir Lowry’s Pass River has been crucial for this season. While the R214 million Sir Lowry’s Pass River upgrade project is still under way.
Badroodien exclaimed that the long-term upgrades are designed to significantly advance the river’s flood risk for the future. For now, the City of Cape Town will continue to conduct a proactive and ongoing river maintenance programme.
The scope of work of this project included removal of alien vegetation, litter and debris along key sections of the river. Special attention was given to clearing vegetation around the headwall structure to allow for proper inspection and maintenance of access.
Additionally, mechanical plant clearing was undertaken to remove accumulated silt from the riverbed, thereby improving stormwater flow and reducing the risk of localized flooding. All cuttings and debris will be disposed of at a legal dumping site.
Councillor Badroodien emphasized that through this ongoing and planned maintenance, their main aim is to improve the quality of all inland water bodies. It also allows us to be best prepared to manage higher water volumes along the City’s waterways, as the rainy winter season progresses.
During the 2024-25 financial year, CSRM carried out eight maintenance initiatives in the Sir Lowry’s Pass River at a total cost of R900,000. Aside from improving river health and flow capacity, the programme also supported local economic development by creating 60 temporary job opportunities for community members.