Sewage build-up puts community and pan at risk
If the pumps were working adequately these spills would not occur.
Following heavy rains over the Easter weekend, the Korsman Bird Sanctuary is once again threatened by another sewage spill.
It is estimated that 1 100mm of rain has been recorded across the city, which has placed the area’s pump stations under severe pressure.
The situation has, however, been worsened due to only one pump actively working to pump sewage from the lines to the purification plant.
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According to Jane Trembath, chairperson of the Korsman Conservancy volunteer group, the most recent spill, as well as others that have been reported to the metro, are preventable faults at the Westdene North pump station.
Residents within the Lakewest area claim the faulty pumps are not only impacting the pan but are posing a risk to residents as spills higher up in the area are also prevalent.
In an email addressed to the metro, Trembath states there is now a high risk of damage to the equipment because faults are not being addressed as and when it occurs.
“The latest spill was slowly dissipating thanks to one pump that was slowly but surely doing its work. However, whenever load-shedding is implemented, the lines cannot be emptied thus causing it to push up to the surface and out of the manholes,” said Trembath.
“According to Ekurhuleni’s current requirements, when new pump stations are erected, provision must be made for the installation of a backup generator.
“In light of this, we will ask Mary Goby, ward councillor in the area, to formalise a request to have one installed at the Westdene North pump station.”
Trembath continues by saying turnaround times from council-appointed contractors also play a big role due to the ill-functioning pumps at both Westdene North and South pump stations.
“It often takes up to 48 hours to return the failing pumps to service, which is not only damaging the equipment but is also resulting in spills,” she said.
“These continuous spills are preventable. It is an offence to allow such pollution to continue. This is criminal negligence by those involved.”
At the time of publication, no comment had been received from the metro.
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