The DA in Govan Mbeki has called on the Green Scorpions to conduct an inspection on sewer leaks in various townships in the municipality.
Some of the sewer spillages are caused by the municipality because of their failure to open sewer lines. As a result, there are manholes permanently opened to discharge sewer to some trenches and into the river.
One of the sewer spillages is at Embalenhle extension 18 flowing directly to the play park. This also affects the nearby bricks manufacturing company.
During an oversight, we have also discovered that the biggest sewer river is at the Mandela section flowing through a big trench and leading into the river. Residents of this area have been subjected to inhumane living conditions with the continuous sewer overflow.
These sewer spillages have an impact on our water system and are exacerbated by non-operational sewer pump substations. The community’s right to potable water is infringed as they cannot consume water from the tap.
Residents exposed to these sewer spillages are at risk of diseases such as cholera, diarrhea and dysentery amongst others.
It is unacceptable that sewer spillages in Govan Mbeki have continued unabated for years, which is contravening environmental laws.
This town can no longer be held hostage by an uncaring ANC government. We will continue holding the municipality accountable, residents of Govan Mbeki have a right to a healthy and a sustainable environment.