Residents were baffled when Cowles Dam turned pink in January.
In the article published January 17 ‘Cowles dam turns a mysterious pink colour,’ we explained how local resident Jacques Van der Ryst and his family were surprised when they saw the dam.
The metro has responded by saying “from the investigation conducted, it was concluded that the pink colour was bacterial related.
“Proper identification to a species level was unfortunately not possible since the pink colour disappeared before the investigation was concluded.
“Since the suspected bacteria could not be identified, it is unknown what triggered the bacteria.
“However, if the pink colour does occur in future, further identification on the bacteria will be done and addressed.” says spokesperson Themba Gadebe.
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Gadebe went on to say the dam is clear of the pink colouration and no treatment was required, but the metro has programmes to look after the water bodies within its jurisdiction such as the monthly water quality monitoring programmes and the beautification of water bodies such as dams.
“The metro, through its water quality monitoring programme, constantly monitors the water bodies for compliance with set standards and to ensure compliance.
“The Water Quality Section does monthly environmental monitoring regarding the quality of water. The city has other programmes such as the beautification of lakes that addresses other issues pertaining to the environment,” says Gadebe.
