JW responds to overflowing frustration of Newlands sewage
The sewage battle still flows on for the community of Newlands, as it may take longer for Johannesburg Water to put a stop to the issue at hand.
Sewage issues have led to widespread discomfort and frustration, especially with the lack of clear feedback from Johannesburg Water (JW).
According to the publication’s report in the Northcliff Melville Times for the week ending May 9, Laerskool Esparanza, along with Alberts Street and Long Road, has been particularly affected by sewage overflow. Despite escalating the matter to JW, no substantial updates were available by the time of publication.
Read more: Decade long sewage nightmare for Newlands residents
JW spokesperson Nombuso Shabalala confirmed that the organisation is aware of the sewage overflow impacting the school field. “A team has been allocated to attend to the matter. However, the blockage has proven to be more complex, and requires major mechanical intervention.”
She noted that access to the affected area is currently limited, due to wet ground conditions, which are hindering the safe use of machinery.
Also read: Calling for urgent action on sewage crisis at local school
Despite these challenges, Shabalala assured the community that JW is actively working on a solution. “We are exploring alternative methods to ensure that the situation is resolved as soon as possible.”
In addition to that, one must realise as to how this might impact the educational aspect of it. According to the Gauteng Department of Education (GDE) spokesperson Steve Mabona, they are aware and concerned about the situation at the school. “Accordingly, a team was dispatched to conduct the necessary assessments. They found that, during the rainy season, recurring flooding and sewage spillage from a pipe blockage, which subsequently goes through to the school yard, exacerbated the situation.”
He assured that the department is in constant communication with the respective municipality for necessary intervention, as a long-term resolution is required.
In addition to the issues at Laerskool Esparanza, the sewerage blockages on Alberts Road and Long Street have also been acknowledged by JW. “The depot is aware of the issues, and it has been referred to their construction team for excavation and further intervention,” Shabalala confirmed.
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