Residents in Thembisa struggle with month-long sewer spillage

Residents of Tsenelong in Thembisa say they are living under unbearable conditions due to a prolonged sewer spillage that has affected homes and streets in the area.

What began as a blocked sewer has escalated into a health and public safety concern, with wastewater reportedly flowing continuously for over a month due to a blocked municipal pipeline.

Local resident Basimane Modise said numerous emails and complaints have been submitted to various municipal departments, but no meaningful response or intervention has been received.

He added that some neighbours have begun blaming him, as the sewer line runs through his property.

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According to Modise, the situation has severely disrupted residents’ daily lives.

The strong odour has forced some to wear masks outdoors, while children are unable to play freely in the streets. Elderly residents, in particular, are at increased risk of health complications due to constant exposure.

Neighbour Solomon Molefe said the situation has already affected his household.

“My sister recently spent five days in hospital as a result of the bad air caused by the sewerage,” he said.

“We cannot open our doors or windows for fresh air because of how bad the stench is.”

The spillage has also affected mobility in the area, with wastewater covering portions of the road and limiting pedestrian access.

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Residents have placed two wooden planks across the affected area as a temporary crossing, although this poses a safety risk, particularly for children and elderly residents who may lose their balance.

Residents further allege that municipal contractors visit the site daily to drain the sewer, yet the waste continues to flow onto the road. According to residents, contractors have indicated that they are acting under instruction.

Modise said he has engaged with the City of Ekurhuleni through its Water and Sanitation and Building Control departments. He also indicated that he was informed of a servitude dispute, in which the municipality alleges that renovations on his property may be contributing to the blockage.

He added that despite this, the municipality appears to have prioritised the servitude matter over resolving the ongoing sanitation issue.

Modise further stated that municipal officials have visited the site on two occasions, including taking photographs and conducting camera inspections of the pipeline on his property. However, he claims he has not been provided with any findings or documentation from these visits.

“I expect openness when dealing with such matters. I have not refused access to my property, but they have not provided the proof and documents I requested,” said Modise.

Kempton Express had reached out to the City of Ekurhuleni for comment on March 12.
By the March 19 deadline, no official response had been received.