A sewage overflow that contaminated the Moreletakloof Nature Reserve, polluted the spruit, and disrupted recreational activities has finally been resolved after flowing for several weeks.

According to Jeannie du Plessis from the Friends of Moreletakloof Nature Reserve, the overflow that started around January 20 originated from a sewer line connecting Helios Street and Rubenstein Drive in Moreleta Park.

She said the blockage occurred a few metres from the main sewer line, located about five metres below the surface, causing sewage to spill into the reserve.

Du Plessis revealed that the pollution spread across walking paths, wetlands, and natural vegetation. This forced the temporary closure of hiking routes and raised serious environmental concerns.

“The sewage flow also carried waste materials including wet wipes, nappies, and other sanitary items, which were spread across the reserve.”

She said her team raised the issue and repeatedly reported the issue while efforts were made to resolve the blockage.

“The contamination also posed a risk to the Moreleta Spruit, which feeds into the Roodeplaat Dam – an important water source.”

Du Plessis said the incident had a severe environmental impact and caused distress among conservation volunteers and residents.

“It was heartbreaking to see raw sewage flowing into a wetland system that plays such an important role in naturally filtering water. The pollution affected the spruit, vegetation and walking trails, and it halted hiking activities for more than two weeks.”

She said while they are relieved that the blockage has now been resolved, the damage caused by the waste and pollution will take time to clean and recover.

Du Plessis further highlighted that the reserve’s wetlands are known for improving water quality as it flows through the ecosystem.

“However, the prolonged sewage spill placed strain on the natural purification process and left behind layers of contaminated waste material.”

Access routes within the reserve were also affected as trees had to be cut to allow maintenance vehicles to reach the damaged sewer line.

Du Plessis stated that volunteers are now expected to assist with clean-up efforts to remove accumulated waste from the affected areas.

She said people should refrain from flushing foreign objects such as wet wipes, nappies and other sanitary products down toilets, as these materials are a major cause of sewer blockages.

Also read: Metro unaware of weeks-long traffic light failure at busy intersection

Do you have more information about the story?

Please send us an email to bennittb@rekord.co.za or phone us on 083 625 4114.

For free breaking and community news, visit Rekord’s websites: Rekord East

For more news and interesting articles, like Rekord on Facebook, follow us on Twitter or Instagram or TikTok or WhatsApp Channel