Residents are outraged about raw sewage dumping in eMbalenhle
The community of Ward 10 demands urgent municipal intervention.
Outraged residents of Ward 10 in eMbalenhle are demanding urgent intervention from the Govan Mbeki Municipality over a contractor allegedly dumping raw sewage near their homes on September 26.
Community members claim a “honey sucker” truck contracted by the municipality to drain overflowing manholes has instead routinely discharged hazardous waste into a quarry near Maphala Gulube Primary School.
Residents report the illegal dumping has persisted for several months, triggering severe environmental and public health fears, particularly for young children who play in the immediate area.
Despite reporting the contractor’s vehicle to the municipality, community members state that no action has been taken.
The lack of response has led residents to question whether the municipality is complicit. Charles Nkosi, a prominent community member, expressed deep frustration over the ongoing health risks.
“It’s not the first time we see the honey sucker dumping raw sewage in the quarry. Our primary concern is our health and that of our children.
“This is concerning because the dumped sewage also flows through our stormwater channel to contaminate the Wellas River, which is going to the Vaal Dam.
“We called the municipality’s water and sanitation department to send their officials while the truck was still disposing of the sewage, but no one came,” said Nkosi.
Nkosi said the municipality and the contractor need to be held accountable for what happened and be stopped.
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He said this shows an absolute lack of concern for their health and the safety of their environment.
“Residents of Ward 10 are exposed to stench coming from the stormwater drainage where sewage is dumped because it is closer to our homes. We don’t need promises, but action,” said Nkosi.
Donald Green, the municipality’s media liaison and content developer, said the GMM has noted the allegations.
Green said the manager for Region 3 has launched a thorough investigation to establish the facts and circumstances surrounding the matter.
“The municipality views allegations relating to the improper disposal of sewage seriously, particularly where such activities may pose potential environmental and public health risks.”
Green said the municipality will provide a detailed response to the questions raised once the investigation concludes.
A comprehensive response is expected next week.
“The municipality appreciates the chance to establish the facts and provide an accurate and informed response,” said Green.
The Bethal Regional Court fined the Govan Mbeki Municipality (GMM) R200m two years ago for contravening environmental laws.
Of this amount, R50m was suspended for five years on condition that the municipality is not found guilty of a similar offence. GMM was ordered to use the remaining R150m to fix the pollution problem.
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