Port Edward… and Ugu in the poo
Photographic evidence was produced which showed just how serious this discharge was.
NATURAL water systems in Port Edward have been badly polluted with faeces for the past six days and, out of utter desperation, Exco Councillor Dave Watson feels justified in creating a stink by speaking to the Herald and writing to the municipal manager himself.
The problem was at the pump station in Boundary Road which was reported by residents, businessmen and himself daily.
Cllr Watson gave Ugu until Tuesday to reply, but there was still no word from them at the time of going to print.
“Meanwhile, the effluent continues to pour into the stream and estuary unabated.”
He said that if Ugu did not react soon, charges would be laid.
He was also infuriated by not being kept informed and he was having to bear the brunt of the community’s anger.
“Whatever the teams did, it was ineffectual in curtailing the discharge into the natural system and in alleviating the threat to public health and safety and the environment,” he said.
He produced photographic evidence that showed just how serious this discharge was.
“It not only enters the natural drains, it also ends up directly in the estuary and then onto a main swimming and recreational beach.
“This is a serious, allegedly illegal act on the part of Ugu,” he said.
On behalf of the residents and the environment they demand:
* That effluent discharge cease forthwith;
* That a concerted, professional and independently certified clean-up operation be undertaken urgently to repair the damage to the environment and alleviate any threat to public health and safety;
* That warning signs be erected at all points of public access to the estuary and stream system, warning residents and visitors of the potentially dangerous water condition;
* That Hibiscus Coast Municipality be notified of the hazard;
* That residents and businesses directly affected by the discharge be served with warning notices about the potential threat to their health and safety;
* That the Department of Environmental Affairs and Tourism and the Department of Water Affairs also be notified of the situation.
Ugu spokesman, France Zama said they were treating the reports with the utmost urgency. They were also looking at other alleged spills at Margate, Mbango and Melville.
“Community members are urged to stay out of rivers and avoid affected beaches until our technicians investigate and report back,” said Mr Zama.
