Sewage spill pollutes Empangeni stream
Overflowing sewage is creating a major health hazard in Empangeni.
SEWAGE gushing through a manhole on a main sewer line in Empangeni is creating a big stink among residents.
Of concern is that the leaking sewerage is making its way into a nearby stream flowing through the park next to President Swart Street.
‘The pressure is so high, it lifts up the heavy concrete manhole cover. Some properties have had their gardens flooded with raw sewerage, posing a major health hazard, not to mention terrible smell,’ said resident Andrzej Ladosz.
‘I have lived here for 20 years and this is not the first time this has happened. Over the years I have reported this problem numerous times, but nothing ever happens. The cause of the overflow is clearly a blockage in the pipe between 24 and 26 Fynn Crescent,’ Ladosz said.
The problem was reported to the municipality on Monday, but by yesterday morning (Wednesday) no repair work had been undertaken.
Ward 23 Councillor Andre De Lange was informed of the situation.
‘I contacted the uMhlathuze Municipality and they say they are aware of the problem and are working on a solution.
‘Owing to the rain we have experienced a high volume of water passed through the system and it could not cope. The plumbers are trying to unblock the pipe to stop the leak.’ De Lange said.
He said the municipality undertook to continue working on the pipe until the problem is solved and the polluted water is prevented from entering the stream.
