Sewerage problems: residents demand explanation from municipality
Residents are demanding answers to what they perceive as a 'stinking' problem.
After two more reported sewerage drains tainted residential areas with their foul contents, repeated complaints by residents are becoming more vociferous.
The field at the corner of Jenkyn and Sutherland streets has leaked sewage across the open field. The resident who initially reported the problem to the municipality was promised as visit from the municipality to investigate, but no such visit was paid.
“The stench is unbearable. It has become a breeding ground for rats. Something has to be done,” pleaded the resident.
A similar drain on Magnolia Street, adding to the ever-growing list, spewed used condoms and raw sewage onto the road and sidewalk. Seemingly the trend, the reporting resident says the problem has been continuous. “We are paying good money and expect a good product. I am fed up with the excuses offered by the municipality.”
The municipality is eerily quiet in this regard; residents are simply told that the matter is being looked into. Residents report the problems to be on-going, lasting sometimes for weeks.
With regards to an article published in the Newcastle Sun dated September 19, we received a reply to our Ask the Mayor column from Cllr Rehman, stating; “… [we] have spent in excess of R100-million on sewer upgrades.”
Distraught residents are demanding to know what upgrades the municipality is referring to, as they see no visible improvements to the sewerage system.
The municipality has been contacted for comment on short notice. Comment is expected to be received in coming days.
