Residents in Glen Marais have to live through regular sewage spills.
The most recent spill occurred two weeks ago and residents believe it poses a serious health hazard.
Last week, the Kempton Express visited the area and spoke to those affected.
According to Zoe Sonnekus, the latest spill erupted from the large drain at the corner of her property.
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“My neighbour dug a hole nearby to release the sewage into the street. We first discovered the spill on April 27 and reported it to the municipality the following day,” said Sonnekus.
“We called the municipality every day, and eventually, someone came out but could not find the problem. They also sent out a water tanker, but that also did not work.”
Sonnekus added the leak happens regularly, and City of Ekurhuleni (CoE) maintenance teams cannot provide a permanent solution.
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“Last year, we experienced the same issue and sewage flowed all over our yard,” said Sonnekus.
“The spill ruined our garden and that of our neighbours.”
She added the spill was a serious health hazard for her family.
“I feel like a prisoner in my own home. I cannot breathe, and it is difficult since my daughter was diagnosed with stage four lung cancer last year.
“She battles to breathe, and this does not help. We are now forced to put her on a 24/7 oxygen machine to give her a better quality of air.
“We cannot open doors or windows, and we have to get out of the house on weekends because our children cannot play in the garden.“
CoE spokesperson Zweli Dlamini confirmed the incident received attention, and a maintenance team was referred to fix the broken or damaged sewerage pipe.
Dlamini said the approach to handling incidents can vary significantly based on factors, such as ageing infrastructure, population growth, and other challenges specific to the context.
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He urged residents to stop the disposing of foreign objects in the sewerage system.
“These may include but are not limited to diapers, clothes, spoons, plastics, and other non-biodegradable items.”
Dlamini added the department had public engagements with communities about such incidents.
He said the most recent engagement was the launch of Siyakhuculula Manje Namhlanje.
“This is a campaign we have launched to clean our drainage systems and educate people about the importance of looking after this infrastructure and the prevention of blockages,” said Dlamini.
