RESIDENTS in Fynnlands on The Bluff are grappling with blocked sewer drains that have persisted for months, prompting urgent calls to the eThekwini Municipality to repair the affected lines.

Residents of Goutsberg Place have raised concerns over overflowing sewage that has gone unresolved for months, despite repeated reports to the eThekwini Municipality.

According to Ward 66 committee member for safety, security and health, Gary Valh, the municipality was informed of the problem soon after it was first noticed. However, he said there has been no meaningful response from City officials.

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He said the issue was first reported between June and July last year, but residents say no lasting action has been taken.

“There has been no feedback or permanent solution from the City since the matter was reported last year,” said Valh.

He said workers from Durban Solid Waste (DSW) only attended to the site on January 21, in an attempt to unblock the main sewer drain.

“During the process, workers lifted the manhole cover, exposing raw sewage that could be seen floating inside the manhole. Residents said the situation has worsened since then, with raw sewage remaining visible and a strong stench affecting nearby homes. The smell is unbearable. It’s affecting our daily lives and creating health concerns, especially for children and the elderly,” said Vahl.

In Chipstead Avenue, a few kilometres away from Goutsberg Place, water sewage coming from a blocked sewage pipe runs through the water drain on the road.

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According to Vahl the leak has been going on from June last year. He said sewage from blocked drains has plagued Fynnlands for months, forcing residents to repeatedly call on the eThekwini Municipality for repairs.

“All these cases have been reported to the City officials, but we have not received any feedback yet.”

He said residents are calling on the municipality to urgently address the problem and implement a permanent solution.

Attempts to obtain comment from eThekwini Municipality spokesperson Gugu Sisilana were unsuccessful at the time of publishing.

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