Water samples from Umhlatuzana river confirm E-coli contamination

RESULTS from water samples taken for testing from the Umhlatuzana River and the stream that begins in Sandpiper Road in Montclair confirmed the water to be highly contaminated with E-coli.

Ward 64 councillor, Gavin Hegter, said on August 23, environmental health practitioner for the Montclair area, Yolande Botha, conducted the tests.

“On September 6, I received results that confirm that both the water sources are highly contaminated with E-coli. I must add that according to reports from the municipality the tap water is safe to drink. Due to a restriction on the number of samples that the environmental health practitioner was allowed to submit, only two samples were taken. I am hoping to get more testing done in the near future,” added Hegter.

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Meanwhile, eThekwini Municipality issued a press release on September 7, which said the quality of water provided by the city continues to be of good quality and is safe to drink.

“The bulk drinking water is monitored by experts from Umgeni Water and by eThekwini Municipality according to International Standard Organisation 17025 accredited laboratories. Water at distribution points is tested regularly as per the South African National Standard 241 for drinking water requirements,” read the release.