THE Palmiet River Watch (PRW) has called for accountability and urgent action to be taken to restore the Palmiet catchment in Westville.

The PRW’s Lee D’Eathe said this is a critical issue which demands public attention and transparent discussion on the crisis of the river’s pollution.

D’Eathe said a recurring foam in the Palmiet River is a shock which serves as “a stark reminder of the sewage pollution crisis”.

Residents along the Palmiet River have been reporting adverse river water conditions.

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“The E. coli levels are often thousands of times higher than the level at which beaches are closed for public safety. Contaminated rivers carry pathogens that can cause serious illness. E. coli is a key indicator of fecal contamination, putting everyone who lives near or interacts with the river at risk,” said D’Eathe.

D’Eathe’s advice to residents living along the river is that they should avoid contact with the river water, especially after rain. Also, residents are advised to keep children and pets away from polluted areas.

“The Palmiet River has become an open sewer, threatening the health and well-being of residents and wildlife. It’s time for action to restore our river and protect our community.

The eThekwini Municipality has not responded to a media enquiry regarding the river.

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