LIMPOPO – A severe sewer blockage in Ward 6, Mandela village, has left residents frustrated, with overflowing waste causing unbearable living conditions and posing significant health risks.

The problem believed to stem from the mainline, has persisted for years, affecting multiple homes and leaving families desperate for a solution.

“It started last year on December 24. Every time we flushed, the dirt would flow to the sewer outside but later come back into the house through the main pipe. Now, our house is constantly smelling, and we have stopped using our indoor toilet entirely because it makes things worse,” said Carol Malatsi, a resident of Ward 6.

Malatsi revealed that the issue has been reported to the ward councillor numerous times but to no avail. “She refers us to the ward committee, who just come to take photos but never take action, especially at my house and my aunt’s house. Attempts to seek help from municipal workers have also been futile, as they claim not to fix in-house sewer blockages,” she said.

The sewage crisis has escalated to the point where waste is flowing openly in the streets, turning the neighbourhood into a hazardous environment. “Three houses away, at my aunt’s place, the blockage has been there for years. The sewage now flows into the street and collects in a trench that looks like a dam,” Malatsi added.

“This is a serious health risk. Our children are exposed to harmful waste, and it is only a matter of time before people start falling ill. The stench alone is unbearable, and the situation is worsening,” said Malatsi..

“This is a mainline problem, and the municipality needs to step in. Residents cannot fix this on their own,” Malatsi concluded.

The Herald attempted to contact the Ba-Phalaborwa Municipality spokesperson, Jonas Mahesu, for a comment. At the time of print, he had not provided feedback.