Residents drinking sewage water?

It might come as news to some but the Herald has been informed that the clean water that supposedly flows into the Tweelopiespruit situated on the outskirts of the North Way extentension and flows all the way to Hartebeesport Dam is infested with feces.

This comes after numerous complaints from concerned residents who suspected that something is fishy with the water that flows into the spruit.

They alleged that it is infested with feces and are concerned because people living in the informal settlements along its banks have been consuming the water frequently not knowing what it contains.

Following the tip off, the Herald together with Ward 9 Councilor Peter Dick went to the Waste Water Treatment Works in North Way to investigate.

This is apparently where the sewage found in the river emanates.

Upon arrival, it was discovered that two of the machines used to filter feces from the sewage water broke down and were taken in for repairs by the Randfontein Local Municipality approximately five months ago.

According to one source, the machines have still not been fixed as the municipality is waiting for the new financial year’s budget to pay out before paying for the repairs.

In the mean time, the sewer pump continues to be health hazard to residents and animals making use of the water.

The Herald has forwarded a list of questions to the Randfontein Local Municipality spokesperson Lucky Chiya and awaits response.