Stretching approximately 34 km underground, the tunnel enables the transfer of water between the new Polihali Reservoir and the existing Katse Reservoir, reinforcing a strategic water system that supports both regional water supply and hydropower generation.

Zutari is contributing to this major infrastructure component through its role in the Metsi a Senqu-Khubelu Consultants Joint Venture, responsible for design and construction supervision. The project is being delivered by the Lesotho Highlands Development Authority on behalf of the governments of Lesotho and South Africa.

Delivering a tunnel of this scale beneath rugged, high-altitude terrain presents significant technical, logistical and environmental challenges. Geological variability, strict safety requirements and the need to protect sensitive mountain ecosystems demanded careful coordination across disciplines and stakeholders. Beyond engineering complexity, the project offered an opportunity to strengthen regional collaboration, build local technical capacity and support long-term economic development in Lesotho, while reinforcing Southern Africa’s water security system.