Clarity after foam fuels fears of Amanzimtoti river sewage leak

WHILE the discovery of a brown foam on the surface of the Little Amanzimtoti River fueled thoughts of another sewage spill, the ward councillor has allayed these concerns.

Following a site visit, investigation and deliberation, Cllr Andre Beetge confirmed the foam substance was not the result of sewage infiltration.

The foam was washed into the rivers after the big surf over the weekend, and was not sewage. “The weekend’s exceptional waves appears to have deposited a large quantity of natural sea foam into the river mouth area,” he explained.

“Due to the sand build-up the mouth is closed, thus trapping the foam which is in turn pushed against the wash away embankment by the north easterly wind. Further to this, there are three branches of what looks like an Isundu palm in the water that compromises dissipation of the foam flotilla.”

The councillor has requested the relevant department to remove the branches in an attempt to free the foam, which however differs from other foams, as it comprises living organisms.

“This should also free up leaves and other plant matter trapped withing the flotilla,” he said. “The stagnant water and scorching sun is ideal for algae that in turn deprives the water of oxygen, which causes schools of fish breaking the surface to breathe.”

A request has been made for the water to be aerated until such time as conditions change.

Cllr Beetge can be contacted on 082-718-8137.

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