Bruma Lake conversion begins
Bruma Lake, a well-known Johannesburg landmark that saw its glory days and eventually turned into a health concern, was drained last week.
The City of Johannesburg (CoJ) drained the lake last week in preparation of its plans to convert it into a free-flowing river.
The project involves filling the lake and reinstating the stream through reshaping the lake basin. This involves impeding or diverting the flow of water in the water course, altering the bed, banks and characteristics of the watercourse.
The EXPRESS previously reported on the city’s intention to fill the lake as it was a major source of pollution in the area.
For years local residents and business owners, as well as environmentalist Mr Paul Fairall, called on the city to address the smell, litter and sewage flowing down the Jukskei River and into Bruma Lake. The smell emanating from the lake affected local businesses and concerns about serious health implications were raised.
Mr Fairall warned that the state of the lake and the river could lead to disease outbreaks if the problems were not addressed.
Last week, Clr Carlos da Rocha said he and Clr Victor Penning were in talks with the city about the changes set to take place in coming months.
“We were shown an artist’s impression of what the area is going to look like. The lake will be filled and a small river will flow through. The surrounding area will be converted into a park. The work will be done in two phases so the project will take a while to complete,” said Clr Da Rocha.
He said the lake basin will be cleaned and possible toxic material removed prior to the conversion beginning.
All residents, affected parties and interested people are urged to attend a public meeting regarding Bruma Lake on June 25.
Clr Da Rocha said the meeting will take place at 6.30pm at Queens High School in Bez Valley.
@JoziReporter
