Locals demand action as Jukskei River pollution worsens

Residents are gatvol and at their wits’ end as the state of the Jukskei River continues to deteriorate.

Some residents have reported experiencing headaches, nausea, and respiratory issues in recent weeks, which they attribute to the river’s poor condition.

The water pollution in the river has recently taken a turn for the worse when raw sewage leaked into the river, with the source ted at Bruma.

ALSO READ: Resident laments poor state of Jukskei River

This has sparked outrage from Morninghill residents because the river flows through the area.

When the Bedfordview Edenvale News visited Malan Avenue and Clarkson Street in Morninghill and Bruma on August 20, the sewage stench emanating from the river was evident in the air.

Foreign objects and human excrement floated in the river.

A long-time resident of Morninghill, Mark Polevnick, expressed his dismay, noting the persistent stench of raw sewage and the accumulation of litter.

“The sewage smell has been here for years. People only seem to notice when floaters are in the river, but the problem has been ongoing. It is embarrassing, especially when hosting guests,” explained Polevnick.

ALSO READ: Spillage devastates Edenvale’s river

The worsening of the Jukskei River has seen community members complain about severe health problems from the pollution.

“It is affecting our health and well-being. We were forced to leave our area to find cleaner places,” said another resident, Adele Pote.

Pote, who first raised concerns about the river’s state in May, said it has become disgusting, with pollution in the river, plastics floating everywhere and lots of filth.

The situation has led to residents questioning municipal authorities’ effectiveness and responsiveness.

ALSO READ: Body of a missing Bedfordview man found in river

“I located the source of the smell myself after the authorities failed to act. It’s outrageous that citizens must take on these responsibilities while public service employees remain absent,” she added.

Community members have escalated their complaints through various platforms in response to these concerns.
In recent weeks, our sister publication, Midrand Reporter, also reported that about 30 to 40 dead fish were discovered at the Jukskie River in the Waterfall area.

Residents want a clear plan of action from the municipality.

CoE spokesperson Zweli Dlamini said the blockages are in the City of Johannesburg (CoJ) area.

“CoE officials met with our counterparts from CoJ, who indicated they are attending to the blockages.”