Life is a bit of stink in Durnacol as sewer spills persist

A tranquil life many sought in Durnacol village is being impacted by a sewer leak that is threatening the community’s health and has already affected bird and fish life.

An overflowing manhole adjacent to the main access road into the former mining village leaks sewage into a stream that flows directly into what is known locally as the number 2 dam.

Johnny and Marlene Koen, who are long-time Durnacol residents, said the manhole had been leaking ‘off and on’ for the past seven or more years.

“We have reported it so many times to Amajuba District Municipality. Workers come out to fix the pipe only to start leaking again a few weeks later,” Marlene said.

They said children often swim in the dam and cattle and sheep drink from the polluted stream.

“The stench of effluent envelopes the area once the wind blows in a certain direction. It is very unpleasant and we are also infested by flies,” added Johnny.

When the Courier visited Durnacol, a green slime could be seen covering the surface of the stream. The leaking in the manhole had been fixed.

Amajuba District Municipality has three men monitoring the adjacent sewer pump station whose job it is to send out an alert should the pump fail.

One of the workers who spoke to the Courier said the pump station often breaks down and has to be repaired.

The Koens said they enjoy living in Durnacol despite some social issues such as there being no entertainment for the local children who often drift into anti-social activities such as drinking, engaging in sex in the open fields and drug taking.

The old mine club, hall and bowling club appear to be abandoned and goats were spotted grazing on what used to be the bowling greens.

The Amajuba District Municipality has been asked to comment and this will be published once received.

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