Objectives

The primary objective of this tender is to establish a Contractors Panel to assist the KwaZulu-Natal Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (KZN DARD) with drilling and equipping boreholes across various districts in KwaZulu-Natal. The department aims to create a readily available pool of qualified contractors who can be called upon to implement borehole projects on an as-and-when basis, supporting socio-economic development and agricultural growth aligned with national policies such as the NDP 2030.

Scope

The scope of work includes:

• Geohydrological Services: Preparation of project execution plans, site assessments, hydrogeological investigations, sanitary surveys, GIS mapping, geophysical surveys, and site suitability analysis.
• Borehole Drilling: Drilling of boreholes up to a minimum depth of 50m (with the possibility of exceeding 150m), including casing installation, reaming, and borehole protection.
• Borehole Testing: Test pumping, water level monitoring, chemical analysis, and yield determination using industry-proven scientific methods.
• Equipping Boreholes: Installation of pumps (electric, solar, windmill, backup generators), reservoirs, and associated electrical and mechanical components, with compliance to standards and warranties.
• Reporting: Compilation of comprehensive reports detailing drilling, testing results, and recommendations.
• Additional Services: Site setup, de-establishment, borehole rehabilitation, and protection measures.

The services will be delivered within a framework agreement for a period of three (3) years, with no guaranteed quantum of work, but with the flexibility to execute projects as instructed.

Technical Requirements

The technical standards and guidelines applicable include:

• SABS 1200 series specifications (A, C, D, GA, L) for civil works, earthworks, concrete, pipelines.
• Occupational Health and Safety Regulations (No 85 of 1993) and Construction Regulations (2014).
• Hydrogeological standards as per the "Minimum Standards and Guidelines for Groundwater Resource Development" (DWAF, 1997).
• Use of appropriate drilling methods suited to geological conditions (Air Percussion, Mud Rotary, Symetrix, Odex).
• Minimum borehole diameter of 165mm.
• Compliance with water quality standards (SANS 241:2015) for water sampling and analysis.
• Installation of approved pumps with at least 12-month warranty, suitable for the borehole yield and site conditions.
• Provision of detailed technical reports, including borehole construction, yield tests, and recommendations.

Skills and Qualification Requirements

Applicants must demonstrate:

• CIDB Registration: A minimum of CIDB CE category of works and grading levels suitable for borehole drilling and groundwater development.
• Geohydrological Expertise: Registered professionals with SACNASP accreditation as water resource scientists or geohydrologists, with proven experience in groundwater investigations.
• Experience: Successful completion of relevant borehole projects, supported by reference letters, completion certificates, or proof of payment.
• Equipment & Resources: Adequate drilling rigs, geophysical survey equipment, pumps, and other necessary tools, with proof of ownership or lease agreements.
• Financial Capacity: Evidence of sufficient financial resources to support project execution, including access to credit facilities or support from financial institutions.
• Compliance: Valid registration with the South African Council for Natural Scientific Professions (SACNASP), Ground-water Association of Kwa-Zulu Natal, and other relevant bodies.
• Health & Safety: Demonstrated adherence to Occupational Health and Safety standards, with submission of a comprehensive H&S plan.

Additionally, bidders must attend a compulsory site briefing and submit all required documentation, including BBBEE certificates, tax compliance PIN, and relevant project experience.