VAALPUTS: disposal of nuclear waste
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A programme to select a suitable site for the disposal of nuclear waste, entailing the examination of a variety of socio-economic and geology related parameters over large parts of South Africa, commenced in 1978.Initial investigations indicated that the northwest Cape was the most likely candidate area. Further detailed studies showed that a locality some 100 km southeast of Springbok (600 km north of Cape Town) was ideally suited for the disposal of low- and intermediate-level wastes. The initial stage of investigations culminated in 1983 when three farms which now constitute the Vaalputs Radioactive Waste Disposal Facility were acquired by the State on behalf of the NECSA , which will be responsible for its management. The first low- and intermediate-level waste was scheduled for delivery in October 1986. GeneralVaalputs covers an area of about 10 000 ha, measuring 16,5 km from east to west and 6,5 km from north to south at its narrowest point. Approximately 500 – 1 000 ha will be occupied by the sites being developed for low- and intermediate-level waste, an interim spent fuel storage facility, housing, roads, power lines and the airstrip.Vaalputs straddles the escarpment between Namaqualand in the west and Bushmanland in the east and has a mean elevation above sea level of about 1 000 m. Namaqualand is characterised by a rugged granitic terrain with a well-developed drainage system towards the west. Bushmanland on the other hand, is extremely flat-lying, often with ill-defined drainage systems and characterised by gently undulating consolidated sand dunes. Broadly speaking, Namaqualand falls within the winter rainfall area which has a characteristic succulent type of vegetation, while Bushmanland falls within the summer rainfall area, with its own distinct flora of woody shrubs and grass. Vaalputs therefore falls within the transition zone between winter and summer rainfall and exhibits characteristics of both regimes. The climate is harsh and in summer temperatures often exceed 40 øC, while in winter freezing conditions and winds with a high chill factor are often experienced. Rainfall is bimodal, with an annual average of about 74 mm, mainly in the form of thunderstorms. Mist is prevalent in the winter months. Years may go by without good rains falling. Sheep farming is the only agricultural activity of any significance in the area. The carrying capacity is extremely low and one sheep per 9 ha is the generally accepted norm. The population density within a radius of 50 km around the site is extremely low and is most certainly less than one person per square kilometre.
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