VIDEO – Sewage spills plague Ermelo amid ongoing R41m outfall pipeline project
The issue becomes apparent when observing the steady stream of sewage flowing between Khutala Park and His Glory Bible Church, originating from an overflowing manhole near the church.
ERMELO – Motorists entering the town on the N17 from Bethal are immediately greeted by an overwhelming stench of sewage as they cross the bridge at the
Pet Dam.
The issue becomes apparent when observing the steady stream of sewage flowing between Khutala Park and His Glory Bible Church, originating from an overflowing manhole near the church.
This sewage then continues downstream into a nearby river, where there is another overflowing manhole contaminating the water source that flows towards Wesselton.
ALSO SEE: GALLERY – Ermelo chokes on sewage stench amid municipal project
Ermelo is intersected by two significant rivers, namely the Vaal River and the Klein Olifants River, the Vaal River being a major water source that flows through multiple provinces in South Africa, including Mpumalanga. On the other hand, the Klein Olifants River acts as a tributary of the Olifants River and passes through Ermelo before joining the larger river system.
Unfortunately, the sewage spillage ultimately finds its way into these rivers, raising concerns over the planning of the ongoing R41m outfall pipeline project initiated by the Msukaligwa Local Municipality (MLM).
While the construction activities in Ermelo and Wesselton are visible and detectable due to the odour, it is important to question why numerous sewage spills continue to occur, and what actions the municipality and its contractors are taking to address the situation.
Highvelder has reached out to Mandla Zwane, the MLM’s spokesperson, for comment.
In his initial response, Zwane provided some information regarding the project’s progress, stating that it is 98% complete and scheduled for completion in August. He also mentioned that environmental audits were conducted by appointed environmentalists. However, he did not furnish further specific details or adequately address the primary questions and follow-up enquiries sent to him.
Read the complete article and the official response of Msukaligwa in Highvelder.
