THE Margate branch of AfriForum recently conducted tests on water in the Ugu district.
The tests were done in order to compile an independent report to determine whether the quality of the water complies with legislation.
These tests are part of the Blue and Green Drop Project run by the 120 branches of AfriForum across the country. The campaign will enable AfriForum branches to test the validity of the Blue and Green Drop reports issued by their municipalities.
According to Chris Fourie, the acting chairman of AfriForum on the Lower South Coast, water samples were taken at Margate main beach and at the Ramsgate Waste Water Treatment Plant (WWTP) outlet in the Mvutshini River. Two other samples were also taken in the Mvutshini River, upstream and downstream from the Ramsgate WWTP.
“Margate beach was closed to the public three times last year, and it has lost its Blue Flag status. The popular environmental television programme 50/50 ran a documentary late last year on raw sewage that flowed into the lagoon causing a severe health risk and making bathing extremely dangerous. AfriForum has decided to take water samples at the same location to ensure that our members and the community are safe,” he added.
“There are several other streams that run directly onto the beach. These streams collect human waste, pollution and chemicals from the surrounding areas and taxi rank which does not have sufficient ablution facilities. Not only does the filth affect the environmental health of the beach, but it also impacts negatively on businesses which are positioned to serve customers on the beach. AfriForum awaits the results of the test and will take the necessary action if needed.”
Ugu spokesman Sipho Khuzwayo has assured residents that Ugu water is safe for human consumption. “The current water quality of Ugu District Municipality was awarded good points during the recent Blue Drop assessment, proving that water provided to communities is safe,” he said.
“Despite the past unfortunate water contamination incidents, Ugu has been able to maintain its Blue and Green Drop certification, ensuring that communities receive good quality water,” he added.
Acting general manager for Ugu water services, Paul Watson said the samples taken by AfriForum must be tested by an identified laboratory and the organisation must be provided with the lab’s accreditation.
“One of the samples drawn by the Afriforum is from Hunters Stream and this is also being tested by the Hibiscus Coast Municipality for Blue Flag compliance. Ugu is currently not in a position to comment on any results without seeing them,” said Mr Watson.
“Ugu has tested its water supply throughout the district which proved Ugu water is safe for drinking and falls within the required South African National Standards for quality (SANS241). The municipality will continue running regular tests on the water to ensure consumers are continuously supplied with quality water,” he concluded.
