LIMPOPO – The problem, which has worsened over the past year, poses serious health and environmental risks due to an inadequate sewage management system.

The Herald received a letter from a concerned resident detailing the severity of the situation. “Since our last meeting on January 28, we were promised an update regarding the municipal sewerage spillage issue.

Unfortunately, not only has there been little to no communication, but the situation has also deteriorated significantly. This leaves me with no choice but to escalate our concerns to anyone willing to listen,” the letter stated.

As of February 11, raw sewage has been spilling from multiple manhole covers along Raptors Escape, reaching as far as Safari Junction. Residents were informed that a broken sewer line was being repaired, yet three days later, the overflow continued, affecting Kayagelo Centre, Safari Junction, Raptor Lodge, Raptors, Southern Cross Schools, and even contaminating a nearby stream that flows into the Zandspruit River and eventually into the Blyde Dam. The letter further pointed out that while a blockage appears to extend up to Drakensig, residents are left wondering about a long-term solution.

“Is the municipality simply waiting for it to clear on its own?” the resident questioned.

According to the complaint, the issue is not new.

“The open pump station on Leguan Street has been leaking raw sewage for months, with the first reports dating back nearly a decade. Despite repeated complaints, Maruleng Local Municipality continues approving new developments, fully aware that the existing infrastructure cannot support the town’s growing needs,” the letter stated.

Residents argue that the current approach of periodically unblocking sewer lines is ineffective and unsustainable. Those living near the open pump station endure unbearable conditions, with the stench of sewage and wastewater seeping into homes and gardens.

“This is an environmental hazard and a serious health risk, especially to schoolchildren and families in the area,” the letter continued.

The residents are demanding immediate action, including an urgent short-term intervention to stop the ongoing sewage spill and a concrete long-term infrastructure plan to prevent future crises.

“We need real solutions, not temporary fixes. We expect a response detailing the immediate steps being taken and the municipality’s long-term strategy to resolve this crisis,” the letter concluded.

The Herald reached out to Mopani District Municipality spokesperson Odas Ngobeni, as the district is responsible for sewage services. However, by the time of print on Monday, no response had been received.