JUST months after repair work to a damaged section of the above-ground sewerage pipe on Prince Mhlangana Road, two new sewage leaks have sprung from the pipe flowing into a tributary feeding the Umgeni River.

Last year’s heavy rains damaged several pump stations, as well as sewerage pipelines, including the above-ground pipe that runs from Red Hill to Riverhorse Valley.

In that instance, concrete sections of the pipe broke away from the main trunk line and rolled into the road.

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The newest leaks from two sections of the pipe are now cause for concern and could spell further disaster for the health of the Umgeni River and its tributaries.

Ward 34 councillor Bobby Maharajh said the latest leaks have been going on now for more than a month.

“With a business park and residents in such close proximity to these leaks, it is a health disaster. The stench on extremely hot days, which we are experiencing now, is appalling. Adding to that, the wastewater is pooling on the road and, at times, flows across the grassy section next to the pavement and ultimately ends up in the tributary.

“This is one of the points contributing to our river’s poor health. What is worse is that pedestrians walking on Prince Mhlangana Road have to cross the sections covered with sewage so as not to be splashed by wastewater. The constant flow is also creating cracks in the road surface which could lead to potholes. Both residents and I have reported this to the eThekwini Municipality who have not responded to this problem. Much of the focus in the last month and a bit has been on Durban’s beaches,” he said.