Durban North residents tackle stormwater drain clean-up
Enviro Fixers Durban North member Helen Koch says if everyone did their part in cleaning up the drains in their area, we would not be facing some of the problems we have with the city's stormwater and drainage system.
HELEN Koch of Enviro Fixers Durban North is determined to help fix Durban North one stormwater drain at a time.
In a bid to keep stormwater drains unclogged in preparation for the fast-approaching rainy season, the Durban North resident held a Stormwater Saturday with the support of community members and Adopt-a-River, an NGO that has been helping keep Durban beaches and surroundings clean.
Helen said if everyone did their part, we would not be facing some of the problems we have with the city’s stormwater and drainage system.
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“The main archeries in Durban have a cleaning contact. Now, when it comes to the smaller suburban roads, it really falls upon the citizens to look after it. If we can maintain them by keeping them neat and tidy, there wouldn’t be such a strain on the stormwater system,” said Helen.
Ward 35 councillor Nicole Bollman said, as the rainy season approaches, it is important to ensure that our internal stormwater drains are well maintained, as well as ensure that any municipal drains needing attention are logged for clearing.
“Stormwater drains work to move rapidly flowing water away from structures and infrastructure, channelling water into the city’s drainage system. Without these drains being managed and maintained, water could back up into a property, creating a high risk for flood and structural damage.
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“Most of the time, stormwater drains get clogged by a combination of rubbish, sediment and vegetation, especially after a severe rain event like we saw earlier this year. A blockage of any sort will make it impossible for water to flow and increase the risk of flooding and possible sinkholes,” said Nicole.
She urges residents to contact a professional to assist should they suspect the drains in their area are blocked or they require jetting.
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