Ongoing river pollution, residents demand investigation
Residents request that the source of chemical contamination is investigated.
Residents living near the Umbango River in Marburg are requesting that some investigation be done about the ongoing contamination in the river.
For some years now, Umbango River has been reported to be contaminated by chemicals from an unknown source, and sometimes sewage which washes out to sea.
The contamination results in a very bad stench, forcing residents to keep their windows closed at all times, to keep the smell from coming into their homes.
An elderly resident of Deepvale Road, Nepaul Davenarian said this has become a health hazard, especially for the elderly who already have breathing problems.
“The stench has lasted for over four months this time round and we are requesting that the relevant department investigates the source of this contamination.”
Ward councillor, Ajith Rajaram said the problem has been going on for years. We need environmental affairs to investigate the source as it really needs their urgent intervention. I did speak to an official from environmental affairs who did promise that a team will be sent out to investigate.
“The biggest risk is that people sometimes use the river water to wash clothes and to drink as the entire district is having water challenges, and it is a health hazard. We are hoping that the source of the contamination is found and the matter is dealt with immediately, Rajram added.
Ray Nkonyeni Municipality spokesperson, Simon April, said a complaint was received on Monday morning this week, from Umbango River Conservancy with background and relevant information.
“The information has been referred to the Department of Economic Development, Tourism and Environmental Affairs (Edtea) Pollution and Waste Section for an investigation as the competent authority to deal with such matters. We as RNM, only provides support to them. Ugu District Municipality was also informed about the pollution and have acknowledged receipt thereof.
“We have not received a response from Edtea, however we are sure that they will attend to it,” said April.
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