Bruma Lake conversion discussed
Several residents recently attended a meeting held to discuss changes taking place in and around Bruma Lake.
Work to convert the lake into a river and the surrounding area into a park commenced recently, following a whopping budget being allocated by the city.
The public meeting that took place recently was held by Clrs Victor Penning and Carlos da Rocha.
Clr Da Rocha informed the public that problems emanating from the lake had existed for years and that solutions had been delayed due to the lack of budget and discussions over the best solution to address the problems.
The EXPRESS has on numerous occasions published articles in which residents and business owners complained about the stench emanating from the lake. This was a result of the litter and sewage-carrying Jukskei River, which flows into Bruma Lake.
This impacted on locals and interested parties, including environmentalist Mr Paul Fairall, urged the city to address what was described as a health risk-posing lake and river. Mr Fairall warned of possible disease outbreaks if the city did not address concerns as a matter of urgency.
The City of Johannesburg (CoJ) opted to fill the lake as it was a major source of pollution in the area.
Last week, Clr Penning said people at the public meeting raised concerns about the security of the area, possible flash flooding, parking availability, maintenance and cleaning and the quality of water flowing through the park once changes have taken place.
A contractor has been appointed and has commenced work on the project. The lake was drained recently and further changes are underway.
Clr Penning said he was informed the contractor and subcontractors would be responsible for the development for two years after completion and would ensure that the city and business community had arrangements in place to address these issues at the end of the contract.
Work to be conducted soon, according to Clr Penning, includes the diversion of the Jukskei River flow, analysis of the sediment and the removal of any hazardous sediment.
He said that other steps to be taken included the punching of holes in the concrete base of the lake, installing a layer of rocks or stones at the base of lake to ensure drainage and the filling of the lake with safe sediment mixed with soil from a nearby sand dump. The sand heap was created by people working on the construction of the new shopping centre being built where the old Bruma Flea market was located.
Clr Penning said there are also plans to retain and refurbish the bridge that goes across the lake.
The plan is to create a natural type of meandering river course through the re-instated Bruma Lake area and a contoured park around it. Trees and grass will be planted, walkways and other features will be built and public lighting will be installed.
“To improve the water quality, the litter traps upstream would be improved and regularly cleaned and maintained. Natural filtration by reed beds would be created and flood control measures would be installed,” said Clr Penning.
@JoziReporter
