The Sandspruit River, one of Johannesburg’s few clean-flowing urban streams, is facing a mounting environmental crisis due to repeated sewage leaks, particularly around Morningside.

Known for its rocky cascades, diverse birdlife, and as a key, green corridor link to Ernest Ullmann Park, the river’s health is critical for both local ecosystems and residents’ wellbeing.

Read more: Grayston Drive’s sewage leak crisis

Since late 2024, sewage spills, from a sewerage line running parallel to the river, have become increasingly frequent.

Multiple manholes along the line, especially near 1st Avenue, have been identified as chronic blockage and spill points, with wet wipes and paper towels often clogging the system.

These untreated discharges are not only degrading the natural habitat but also posing serious environmental and health risks.

Ward 109 councillor Lori Coogan, actively involved in addressing the crisis, stressed the urgency of the situation. “This is about more than just an unpleasant smell or unsightly pollution; it’s about safeguarding our river, our green spaces, and the health of our families and pets, and the wildlife that depend on this environment.”

On August 3, Johannesburg Water (JW) deployed a Jetvac truck to clear a stubborn blockage using high-pressure hoses. This provided temporary relief; however, the community recognises that long-term, sustainable solutions are essential.

One promising approach under consideration is bioremediation, a natural process using micro-organisms to break down sewage contaminants. “We’re exploring this as part of a broader strategy to ease pressure on the overburdened sewerage infrastructure,” Coogan said.

Community leaders are now monitoring the situation closely, urging residents to report any sewage leaks with exact locations and photos to JW for tracking and escalation.

“The responsibility to protect the Sandspruit is shared,” Coogan said. “We need accountability from polluters, enforcement from authorities, and nature-based interventions to preserve this precious resource.”
Local resident and volunteer Bernadette Phillips said: “As a resident and a volunteer who is passionate about nature and service delivery, I’m very concerned about the ongoing sewage spills into the Sandspruit River, which flows through Ernest Ullmann Park.

“With the support of councillor Lori Coogan, we have been working hard and continuously to report and resolve these issues since late last year, but the frequency and size of the spills are now becoming very worrying.”

Philips added that one of the major contributing factors is the improper disposal of non-biodegradable items into the sewerage system, both by individuals and businesses. “We urgently need to raise awareness and educate the public about how these actions directly impact our rivers and surrounding environment. Of course, the aging infrastructure, likely too small to handle the volume of sewage and grey water, adds to the challenge. Despite the setbacks, we remain optimistic. With continued effort and community support, I believe we can find sustainable solutions to prevent these spills and to protect the wildlife and natural beauty along the river.

“Every action counts. Individual efforts, combined with community support and political will, can make a real difference.”

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