WATCH: Wemmerpan is contaminated
During the investigation by Joburg Water it also emerged that hydraulics are discharged into stormwater drainage system that flows into stormwater culverts and eventually into the dam.
Residents in and around Wemmerpan have been complaining about the bad smell emanating from the dam about a month ago.
Quick response from different stakeholders’ investigation points at hazardous substances that flow into the dam are the main cause of the bad smell. Because of these hazardous substances, the dam has turned almost black in colour and makes it difficult for ducks and other birds to frequent it.
Isaac Dhludhlu, Joburg Water spokesperson, said, “Our investigations into the pollution of the Wemmerpan confirm that it is hazardous substances and not sewerage that is entering and polluting the dam.
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“I have informed and requested that Cydna Labs trace the source of the polluter and to take the necessary steps to stop the pollution.”
During the investigation by Joburg Water, it also emerged that hydraulics are discharged into stormwater drainage system that flows into stormwater culverts and eventually into the dam.
This was also communicated to Environmental Health Department which said they will take up the matter.
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“There are no blockages or sewer bursts that will affect the dam in or surrounding area. Klipriver Road sewer burst was also investigated which is just across depot, no blockage found. The stormwater drainage system in this area feeds into Robinson stream (westbound) in Booysen not into Wemmerpan (eastbound),” said Dhludhlu.
Joburg Water suggested that it is high time that by-law enforcement is administered in order to curb further damage to the dam.
Further investigations are underway and Department of Water and Sanitation is also on board.
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