City tackles pollution crisis at Eastleigh Spruit

The City of Ekurhuleni (CoE) is increasing its efforts to address pollution at Eastleigh Spruit.

This follows growing concerns from residents and environmental groups highlighting sewage spills, blockages and water contamination.

Residents and ward councillors raised concerns about pollutants entering Edenvale’s water system.

ALSO READ: City yet to clear its financial woes

This continuous problem dates back years and was highlighted in recent months through multiple sewerage blockages and sewage leaks.

To address the issue, the CoE embarked on a clean-up campaign that started on October 18 and ended on November 8, with special attention given to Andries Pretorius Road.

According to CoE’s spokesperson, Zweli Dlamini, the city is making significant progress in restoring the Eastleigh Spruit, which has experienced pollution from constant sewage overflow and grey water runoff from the surrounding factories.

ALSO READ: City takes action against non-paying businesses and government entities

“A dedicated team is addressing the silted and blocked areas along the stream, specifically at 5th and 6th Avenue, to ensure free-flowing water.”

He said that by eliminating these blockages, the city would aim to prevent flooding in local factories and homes.

“The city urges residents to refrain from littering as a staggering 60% of the debris found in the stream consists of empty beverage containers and other foreign objects.

This underscores the importance of community participation in waste minimisation and disposal,” said Dlamini.

Residents are encouraged to report any illegal dumping, including waste dumped into streams, to the local authorities for urgent intervention.

“Reporting such incidents helps improve water quality and reduce pollution, thus enhancing public health and the quality of life for all Ekurhuleni residents,” he added.

Residents can report such incidents through any of the following platforms:

• Twitter handle CoE_Call_Centre
• Siyakhokha website https://siyakhokha.ekurhuleni.gov.za/Account/Login
• Email Call.Centre@ekurhuleni.gov.za
• My Ekurhuleni App.