Beneath the surface of South Africa’s Vaal Dam lies a hidden chapter of history, one that resurfaces only when the waters retreat – an underwater grave site.
Vaal, South Africa (14 December 2024) – South Africa’s rich history often reveals itself in the most unexpected ways. Sometimes, it rises from beneath our feet – or, in this case, from under the waters of the Vaal Dam.
Every few years, when the dam’s water level drops significantly, an eerie yet fascinating sight emerges: an underwater grave site that tells a story of resilience, adaptation, and community.
And photos of these graves are going viral on social media again in 2024.
The underwater grave site is a remnant of life before the dam’s creation in the early 20th century. Built in 1938 to supply water to the growing Johannesburg region, the Vaal Dam submerged several farms and small settlements, along with their cemeteries.
The current drop in water levels, with the dam standing at just 26.5% capacity as of 9 December 2024, has uncovered the grave site for the first time since November 2020. Before that, the graves were last exposed in November 2016, when the dam hit a record low of 26.3%.
Why Are Water Levels So Low?
The decline in the dam’s capacity is due to a combination of factors. A particularly dry summer with scorching temperatures has accelerated evaporation. Additionally, maintenance on the Lesotho Highlands Water Project—a crucial source of water for the dam—has reduced inflows. Experts believe that climate change, shifting rainfall patterns, and a lack of adequate rainfall in the Vaal catchment area have also played significant roles.
Despite the visible effects of the drought, the Department of Water and Sanitation (DWS) has reassured South Africans that there’s no immediate cause for concern.
The Sterkfontein Dam, a reserve water supply, is ready to bolster the system should the Vaal Dam’s level drop below 18%. However, the DWS continues to urge responsible water use, highlighting that every drop saved helps to ease the strain on our systems.
Why This Story is a Good Thing
The reappearance of the grave site serves as a powerful reminder of our shared history. It’s a moment to reflect on the ingenuity and determination that shaped South Africa’s water infrastructure while also paying respect to the lives and stories now intertwined with this dam.
This moment also brings an opportunity for education. The visible graves have sparked discussions about water conservation, climate resilience, and the impact of human activity on natural resources. It’s a chance for communities to unite in efforts to preserve and protect the water that sustains us all.
These graves have withstood decades of submersion, and their reappearance reminds us of the resilience that defines South Africa’s people and landscapes.
In the spirit of optimism, let’s use this moment to recommit to sustainable water use, celebrate the progress we’ve made in managing our resources, and honour the history revealed by the waters of the Vaal Dam. Together, we can ensure that future generations will also marvel at the stories that connect us to our past.
Sources: Department of Water and Sanitation | Africa Check
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