Newmarket businesses raise alarm over ongoing sewage overflow in Alberton
A persistent sewage overflow in Newmarket, Alberton, is raising environmental and public health concerns, with a local business appealing for urgent municipal intervention after repeated attempts to resolve the problem.
Businesses in Newmarket, Alberton, are calling for urgent municipal intervention to address an ongoing sewage overflow that is reportedly flowing into the storm water drainage system despite repeated requests for assistance.
In a statement seen by the Alberton Record, a concerned resident representing a business in the area said the matter remained unresolved despite numerous requests to the municipality, the local council and the ward councillor.
Ward councillor representatives had reportedly visited the site to assess the situation and offer assistance, but the resident said these visits had not yielded a lasting solution.
Persistent overflow
The statement noted that representatives had assessed the site and offered assistance, but no resolution had been reached while sewage continued to run into the storm water network.
The ongoing problem has raised concerns about sanitation, environmental contamination, unpleasant odours and potential health risks to employees, customers, neighbouring businesses and members of the public.
The resident explained that local enterprises were bearing the brunt of a situation beyond their control, which directly affected their premises, operating conditions and customer experience.
The resident stressed that storm water infrastructure should not carry effluent, urging authorities to investigate the root cause, halt the spillage immediately and provide clear timelines for corrective work.
Burden on local trade
According to the statement, repeated attempts to secure help through official channels had failed, placing an unacceptable burden on businesses and the surrounding area despite their willingness to co-operate.
The resident has appealed to the municipality for attention to the matter.
“Access to proper sanitation and a clean, safe business environment is essential,” said the resident, demanding accountability and decisive action.
The Alberton Record has approached the City of Ekurhuleni for comment, which will be included once received.
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