The multimillion-rand sewer reticulation project at Helen Joseph Hostel is slowly progressing, with officials confirming that at least half of the work has now been completed.

Despite visible challenges, such as sewage pooling in certain sections and delays caused by weather and payment issues, progress is steadily being made toward replacing 850m of ageing pipelines.

Read more: Multi-million rand sewer project tackles ageing infrastructure at Helen Joseph Hostel

Community liaison officer Selina Nkuna acknowledged that some areas remain affected by blockages, particularly in the J2 section, where residents struggle to air their laundry due to stagnant sewage, explaining that the matter will be attended to.

Nkuna emphasised that while the pace has been slower than expected, the project is moving forward. She further confirmed that, while the project was expected to be completed within four months, with April set as the deadline, unforeseen circumstances have led to an extension.

Ward 107 councillor Floyd Ngwenya confirmed that the main contractor requested more time, citing payment delays as a major obstacle. While workers have now received their wages, small, medium, and micro enterprises (SMMEs) are still awaiting payment.

@caxtonjoburgnorth WATCH: Community Liaison Officer Selina Nkuna says the Helen Joseph Women’s Hostel sewer reticulation project is making progress despite the challenges. Video: Itumeleng Maloka #Alex #helenjosephospital ♬ original sound – Caxton Joburg North

Ngwenya assured that the outstanding payments of SMMEs will be resolved. “[SMMEs] have come to me and said they have not been paid. So, I have asked the necessary question to the main contractor, and the main contractor assured me that they would make payments as soon as possible.”

Also read: Helen Joseph Hostel sewer upgrade falls short of flushing away wider problems

Nkuna also highlighted that weather conditions have played a role in slowing down construction. Heavy rains in recent weeks prevented work from continuing on certain days. Nevertheless, she reiterated that the project remains on track, albeit with an adjusted timeline.

The sewer upgrade is a crucial intervention for hostel residents, who have long endured poor sanitation due to outdated infrastructure.

The replacement of 850m of pipelines is expected to bring lasting relief, improving both hygiene and living conditions.

“We want the project to end, and we want this to be a successful project, so that we can have many other projects that are going to come within the ward and within Helen Joseph Hostel, because we don’t like the state that Helen Joseph Hostel is currently in.”

While the smell of sewage still lingers in some areas, and some areas continue to flood, the halfway mark signals progress toward a healthier environment.

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