ETHEKWINI mayor Mxolisi Kaunda said the City plans to fast-track repairs of flood-damaged sewerage infrastructure that is currently causing pollution to the environment and rivers and oceans. They will also maintain the existing infrastructure.

In recent weeks, multiple sewage leaks have plagued parts of Durban and surrounds.

This has been compounded by the fact that several beaches across Durban have been closed due to high E. coli readings and water-quality concerns. A mass fish kill in the Umgeni River has also highlighted the dangers of high E. coli readings.

Also Read: Probe into Umgeni River mass fish-kill

This week, a report tabled at the Executive Committee (EXCO) meeting gave the Water and Sanitation Unit the green light to reprioritise R93.62m of their 2022/23 capital budget to assist with related projects to optimise spending in the coming financial year.

“The floods in April and the heavy rains in May affected various water and sanitation infrastructures. Various sanitation pump stations and treatment works were left in a very poor state due to storm damage and are non-functional. This led to the environment being polluted,” said City spokesperson Msawakhe Mayisela

He added the city has also received a R184m Disaster Management grant that will expedite the repairs of roads, water and sanitation, and other damaged and destroyed infrastructure.

Also Read: Concern over sewage leaks into Umgeni River

Mayor Kaunda said the repairs to the sewerage system are much-needed. “It is imperative to ensure the contamination of rivers and beaches is stopped. We need to ensure beaches are open and safe in the run-up to the festive season and school holidays,” Kaunda said.

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