ERMELO – A coalition of residents led by Lourens de Beer, Silvija Breytenbach and Sonicha Korczynski has formally challenged Msukaligwa Local Municipality over alleged pollution and environmental mismanagement affecting Ermelo’s water catchment.

The complaint, dated September 16, follows a September 11 inspection of the wetland corridor near Ermelo Golf Club, where residents met with the club’s executive committee and municipal environmental officer Zanele Nkabinde.

The coalition raised concerns about the water catchment supplying Douglas Dam, sewage contamination, alleged mining sludge and disturbance of a protected wetland.

They alleged that the main creek feeding Douglas Dam has been severely reduced in depth by coal debris and sludge, while invasive reeds have further restricted water flow.

They said the creek, which previously had a riverbed between 1m and 3m deep, has in places been reduced to between 50mm and 150mm.

This means some sections of the watercourse are now only 5cm to 15cm deep, according to the residents.

They also allege that untreated sewage is entering the wetland through stormwater systems.

The coalition is calling for environmental consideration before clearing water paths, an immediate stop to mining activities in the catchment, public disclosure of environmental approvals and water-quality results, sewage treatment measures and rehabilitation of the affected creek.

The complaint follows an earlier February 24 enquiry concerning Brummer Dam, which the coalition says has remained unanswered for more than six months.

The residents have given the municipality seven business days to provide a detailed intervention plan.

They say the matter will be escalated if no response is received.

Highvelder approached MLM spokesperson Mandla Zwane for comment. At the time of going to press, the municipality had not responded.

Read more about the residents’ detailed allegations, excavation concerns and the offers to restore Douglas Dam’s capacity in the Highvelder’s printed edition.