In response to an article the Addie wrote concerning the hyacinth problem in Alexander Dam, titled Alexander Dam in a sorry state, Agnes Masilo of the metro states the following:
“The Alexander Dam is part of the City operational plans to manage and control excessive hyacinth growth.
“It should be understood that due to hyacinth reproductive behaviour, it becomes almost impossible to eradicate it completely.
“In ideal conditions, the invasive plant can double in a period of two weeks. In the coming weeks, spraying of the hyacinth will be done to manage the growth.
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“In addition, the Watermaster machine will be deployed to undertake physical removal.”
She adds: “No contractor has currently been hired.
“Currently, the received bids are being evaluated and the process has not yet been concluded.”
Regarding the allegations of sewage being dumped in the dam, Masilo says: “We are not aware of the alleged sewage dumping at Alexander Dam.
“We, however, appeal to the community to take pictures, which could identify the trucks that may be involved.”
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Masilo concludes: “The major challenge with the hyacinth is that it is a category one plant that needs to be controlled wherever it occurs.
“This means the City is obliged to intervene wherever the plant occurs.
“Currently, there are a number of water bodies where the problem is prevalent and it becomes a challenge to attend to all the areas at the same time.”
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