Lonehill residents fight for restoration of Lonehill Dam, calling on Johannesburg Water to help them

Lonehill residents, as well as those in the surrounding areas, have voiced their increasing concerns over alleged sewage pollution originating from local infrastructure, which has compromised the integrity of the Lonehill Dam and poses potential health risks to the community.

Lonehill Dam, a popular spot for recreational activities and nature enthusiasts, has recently turned into a source of apprehension for locals. As reports of foul odors and visible contamination have surged over the past few weeks, community members are demanding urgent action from local authorities to address the issue.

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“We used to enjoy picnics by the dam, but now we can’t even approach it without feeling sick from the smell. It’s not just the dam. The stench permeates our homes, making it hard to breathe,” explained, a long-time resident of Lonehill who asked to remain anonymous for safety reasons.

Complaints have highlighted odors identified as sewage related, prompting fears of air pollution impacting not only the quality of life but also the health of families living nearby. Some local parents are making tough decisions about their children’s outdoor activities.

In response to growing community outcry, the Lonehill Residents Association has been reporting the issue to Johannesburg Water. Nedeem Abrahams, an environmental manager with the Lonehill Residents Association, offered insights into the ongoing situation.

“I reported the sewage leak, and the team came to fix the fault after a week of reporting. They said the delay was due to their lack of a TLB (tractor loader backhoe), as they are sharing a TLB with another Johannesburg Water department. After the big sewage leak was resolved, it blocked further down. A manhole was overflowing again, going straight into the Lonehill dam.”

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The community is actively seeking solutions to restore the dam’s water quality. Abrahams added, “We are hoping that the ward councillor can assist us in getting the fountain working in the dam. This will help oxygenate the dam water as a start. Re-oxygenating the water will oxidize pathogens and algae rapidly, thus assisting in the rejuvenation of the water quality.”

When asked about the frequency of these sewage related issues, Abrahams said, “I would say every third week there are reports of sewage overflows, and most of them find their way into the Lonehill Dam.”

As the community continues to rally for immediate action, the hope is that effective measures are taken to restore both the cleanliness of the dam and the health of Lonehill residents.

Fourways Review reached out to Johannesburg Water, on October 30, but no response was received from the department before going to print.

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