Residents are demanding urgent intervention as persistent sewage leaks continue to affect residential areas, businesses and public spaces across Dundee, raising growing health and environmental concerns.

Raw sewage has been overflowing for months in several areas, including Lower McKenzie Street, Victoria Street and Excelsior Lane, where residents say it has spilt onto roads, pavements and open fields.

One of the worst-hit areas is Lower McKenzie Street, where an elderly resident was forced to leave her home after the stench from sewage flowing into a nearby open field became unbearable. Neighbours said sewage also spread onto private properties, forcing some residents to temporarily relocate.

Business owners in the central business district have also raised concerns about the impact on customers, while residents say the ongoing sewage leak in Excelsior Lane, near Dundee Junior School, poses a serious health risk.

Parents concerned over health of children

“Sewage is constantly running along the pavements and roads, exposing children, parents and community members to unpleasant odours and creating a serious health risk,” said a parent who asked not to be named.

Endumeni Councillor Naresh Gopie visited another sewage spill in Lower Victoria Street after receiving complaints from residents and local businesses.

“I immediately contacted uMzinyathi District Municipality to intervene and address the situation,” he said.

Municipal officials acknowledged the increasing number of sewage overflows across Dundee and said repair teams are attending to reported leaks, which have escalated in recent months.

Residents have urged the municipality to resolve the problem urgently, warning that the continued spills pose a threat to public health, the environment and the local economy.

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