While Ugu District Municipality waits for funding approval by government millions of litres of sewage flow into the Nkongweni river and estuary system in Margate.

As a result the beach has been closed to bathing and recreational activity.

“Regrettably, damages on the pipeline are major and we await funding approval from either provincial or national government,” said spokesman, France Zama.

The municipality understands that the overflow is due to recent the flood damages, as the pipeline to, and from, 3A pump station were completely washed away.

Zama said that as an immediate measure Ugu will dewater the pump station to access mechanical and electrical components and thereafter follow necessary procurement processes to repair.

ALSO READ: Alarm over Margate beach sewage spill

“Vacuum truck supplies tankers are also being used to contain the spillage while a jetter will be attending to accessible manholes to clear blockages that might hinder sewage flows in the system,” he said.

Simon April, RNM spokesman, responded earlier today: “The issue of sewage is for Ugu District Municipality to respond to. What I can confirm is that Margate beach is still closed for bathing and/or any recreational activity.”

ALSO READ: ‘No life left in river’ – Margate beach temporarily currently closed

This environmental issue is not a new occurrence for Margate.

Sewage has been flowing into Nkongweni River for years, which has even resulted in fish kill.

Concerned residents sent photographs and video footage to the Herald earlier this week.

ALSO READ: UPDATE: Sewage contamination at Margate – Ugu issues statement

Comment was requested from Ugu and Ray Nkonyeni municipalities on Tuesday and they were able to respond today.

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