Golden Acres Estate sewage overflow sparks concerns

TZANEEN – Residents of the luxury Golden Acres Estate are once again battling the stink of a sewage overflow at their pump station, with many warning that the problem, which has persisted for more than 18 months, is creating both an environmental and health risk.

The problem escalated in the last two weeks after sewage flowed for more than a week into the Tzaneen Dam from the estate.

The issue centres around the estate’s two sewage pumps, a primary pump and a back-up system, that are designed to work in tandem to prevent overflow. However, residents say the back-up pump has been out of commission for some time, leaving the entire estate reliant on a single unit.

Golden Acres resident Mario Ferreira said the situation is frustrating. “This has been going on for 18 months now. Although we are happy that the primary pump has now been fixed, the back-up should be repaired as soon as possible to avoid the same problems in the future,” Ferreira explained.

FF Plus Limpopo legislature member and Tzaneen resident, André Moss, confirmed that he was approached by one of the residents to intervene. “I immediately contacted the municipality to try and establish what was wrong. I was informed that the problem lies with the back-up pump, which requires specific parts to be repaired. The municipality assured me that the materials have been ordered and are awaiting,” Moss said.

He added that the estate’s reliance on a single pump creates ongoing risks. “At the moment, they are relying only on the primary pump. If that pump fails again, it immediately turns into an environmental problem. Sewage overflow is not only unpleasant, but it is also a health hazard for residents and a danger to the dam,” Moss warned.

DA Cllr Chrisma Bredenkamp confirmed that her party opened a criminal case in April last year regarding sewage spills in various parts of the town, including Golden Acres. “That case is now with a lawyer, and it covers not only Golden Acres but several other problem areas as well,” Bredenkamp said.

She further highlighted that the problem is widespread. “Sewage is flowing directly into the dam, which should be of great concern to everyone. Just this past Tuesday, September 2, Flora Park also experienced the same issue of overflowing sewage,” she added.

The Herald contacted Greater Tzaneen Municipality spokesperson Vutivi Makhubele for comment. However, at the time of print on Tuesday, no response had been received. An update will be published once the municipality provides feedback.