Ward Councillor Tim Denny has called for swift municipal intervention following a sewer blockage incident at Laerskool General Alberts Primary School, stressing the importance of prioritising schools and other essential facilities when service disruptions occur.

Denny said that sewer-related incidents pose serious health risks and should be handled immediately.

“The department must prioritise schools, clinics and other critical places whenever there is a sewage blockage or water issue,” he said.

“Children’s education and safety must always come first, and we cannot afford delays when it comes to essential services.”

@albertonrecordLaerskool General Alberts in Alberton faced a major sewer blockage that disrupted its aftercare operations, prompting Ward Councillor Tim Denny to demand quicker municipal response to service failures affecting school Full story on albertonrecord.co.za

♬ original sound – Alberton Record

The blockage affected the school’s drainage system late last week, forcing the aftercare centre to close on October 24, while classes continued as normal.

“Luckily, we did not have to close the school,” said principal Karel Steenkamp. “If the problem had continued for another half an hour that morning, we might have had to, but we managed to keep lessons going. We only closed the aftercare that afternoon because the drains were blocked and the bathrooms could not be used.”

Steenkamp said the municipal team first responded on Thursday afternoon but realised they needed a larger truck to fully clear the blockage.

“They came early Friday morning and by about quarter past nine everything was sorted. The team was very helpful and we appreciate their assistance,” he said.

Denny said the incident highlights the need for faster response times to prevent future disruptions at critical public facilities.