THE eThekwini Municipality has provided an updated on a project to repair and reinstate a major sewerage network pipe that carries wastewater to the uMhlatuzana Wastewater Treatment Works.

Large sections of the pipe were damaged by the floods in 2022, causing it to break apart, resulting in raw sewage flowing into the river.

Now the city has achieved a major milestone in its efforts to restore the bulk sewer network in the area.

Also read: Blocked sewer blamed for pollution in Palmiet River

In a statement issued last week the City said “significant progress” had been made with reconnecting the sewer inflow to the treatment works.

“This achievement has resulted in a significant amount of effluent spillage being contained and prevented from entering the river. This critical milestone marks an important step in reducing pollution and protecting the local environment,” the City said in a statement.

The bulk sewer system currently under refurbishment services several major catchment areas across various wards, including Northdene, Mariannhill, Pinetown, Tshelimnyama, and parts of uMhlatuzana.

Project expected to be complete in 2026

Project Executive Sduduzo Mtshali highlighted that this initiative is one of the City’s flagship sewer rehabilitation projects, structured into five work packages.

“Commissioning work package one, which includes the manholes and pipelines linking to the treatment facility, is a significant milestone. This work has led to a substantial reduction in pollution, with sewage now flowing directly to the treatment works, instead of overflowing into the river,” Mtshali said.

Also read: Weather conditions delay progress on Stapleton Road

He added that the newly-installed sewer pipelines have been engineered to withstand extreme weather events, featuring concrete encasement and protective barriers to prevent erosion and ground movement.

The full project is expected to be completed in 2026.

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