The last time the drains along Herman were cleared was 13 months ago, according to City of Ekurhuleni spokesperson Zweli Dlamini.
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In the December 8 edition of the NEWS, it was reported that concerns were raised over severe water drainage problems in Meadowdale and Harmelia.
In the article, the NEWS’ enquiry focused on Herman Street.
During heavy rains, it takes less than 10 minutes for the intersection of Herman and Kruin streets to flood, rendering the road nearly impassable.
It takes even less time for large sections of Herman Street from Meadowdale to Kruin Street in Harmelia to flood.
While the attenuation spruit between Herman and Finger streets works well to redirect large amounts of water flowing from Klopperpark, Elandsfontein and Tunney, the storm water that causes the flooding does not reach the spruit.
Instead, storm water flows along Herman and Kruin streets and pools in large volumes in low-lying areas.
The intersection poses a serious risk for flash floods and with each passing storm the risk of life loss as a result of poor drainage increases.
Ward 92 councillor Kade Guerreiro said he had requested a full clean and maintenance report for the section of the road.
He stated that he plans to request regular clean-ups to ensure large amounts of waste dumped into the drains can be cleared before blockages can become a problem.
In the December 8 article, the NEWS asked whether there were plans to upgrade the stormwater infrastructure at the problematic intersection as well as Herman Street and Guerreiro said the department was aware of the many issues around the sewage and stormwater systems in Ekurhuleni.
“My plan is to ensure budget is allocated to ensure upgrades and maintenance moving forward.
“I will ensure the relevant department is aware and ensures the drains in the area are cleaned.
“We have a very old system and with mass dumping and change in weather patterns, our systems need to be able to handle the demand,” Guerreiro said.
At the time of publication for the December 8 edition, the City of Ekurhuleni was still investigating the problem.
Dlamini confirmed that there was a maintenance plan in place, which should see the channels cleared twice a year.
Commenting on whether there were plans to upgrade the stormwater infrastructure at the intersection, Dlamini said the issue must be placed on the IDP priority list.
He also said that the stormwater channel near the intersection was currently, “blocked by a nearby Rand Water project.
“We have engaged with them to find a solution but we are still waiting for feedback,” he said.
Dlamini confirmed that there are plans in place to rectify the drainage problems.
“All the concrete in front of the stormwater drainage lines needs to be removed to allow for the water to flow in the stormwater system.”
He added that teams from the City will work with Rand Water teams to find an amicable solution for flooding at the intersection.
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