Raw sewage pollutes local waterways
A severe sewage leak in Westdene posed an urgent threat to the ecosystem, prompting local councillors to demand immediate action.
Councillors Nicolene Jonker (Ward 88), Kyle Jacobs (Ward 87), and Genevieve Sherman (Ward 69) recently addressed a severe sewer leak reported on Korea Road in Westdene.
The leak, which posed significant environmental risks, was first reported two weeks ago and resulted in raw sewage seeping into the vital watercourse flowing through Melville Koppies and the Johannesburg Botanical Gardens.
Read more: How is raw and untreated sewage allowed to flow unchecked for a month by Johannesburg Water?
Jonker highlighted the urgency of the situation, saying, “The leakage threatens the ecosystem and public health, endangering residents and wildlife that depend on these natural habitats.”
Recognising the potential harm, the councillors submitted a formal letter to several city officials, including City Manager Floyd Brink and the Managing Director of Johannesburg Water (JW), Ntshavheni Mukwevho.
The letter emphasised the need for immediate action, referencing the Johannesburg Water Service Level Agreement (SLA), which mandates that all sewer issues be addressed within 24 hours.
The councillors expressed their concerns in the letter, stating, “The repercussions of this sewer leak extend far beyond the immediate vicinity, affecting the integrity of natural reserves and the quality of life for residents who enjoy these green spaces.”
Wendy Carstens, chair of the Melville Koppies Management Committee said the sewage leak was located in Melville Koppies West, where the sewer line runs parallel to the Westdene Spruit.
Also read: Three-year long sewage issue down the drain
“The situation had previously led to overpowering odours in Melville Koppies Central, where thick sewage sludge and toilet paper had turned the spruit into a toxic disaster. The Westdene Spruit flows northwards into three dams, including Emmarentia Dam, located within the botanical gardens.”
Jenny Moodley, spokesperson for Johannesburg City Parks and Zoo (JCPZ), echoed these concerns, indicating that the sewage spill would negatively impact the management and maintenance of the sanctuary.
She warned that the pollution posed a risk to wildlife and disrupted the delicate ecosystem. While awaiting Johannesburg Water’s intervention, JCPZ implemented temporary measures to contain the spill, monitor water quality, and prevent further pollution.
However, Moodley clarified that the responsibility for rectifying the sewage line connection lay solely with Johannesburg Water.
Local Westdene resident David Dickinson expressed frustration over the recurring nature of sewage leaks in the area. “This is the second time in two years that we have had a major sewage leak into the spruit,” he said.
Dickinson recounted the previous leak in 2022, which took several weeks to resolve. “We cannot allow raw sewage to flow into our waterways,” he insisted, urging Johannesburg Water and city officials to take decisive action.
Fortunately, Dickinson noted that JW had attended to the matter and confirmed that the overflow was fixed on September 3.
The Northcliff Melville Times reached out to JW for confirmation that the leak had been fixed but was still awaiting a response from the depot manager.
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