The City has made significant progress in the repairs of coastal sewer pumpstations which have been affecting water quality in the beaches.

The repairs have been completed in many of the coastal pumpstations, which has therefore stopped an overflow onto the environment in other areas. Where repairs are not yet complete, teams are doing final touch ups which include carrying out housekeeping, sump cleaning and fencing repairs.

Also in progress are repairs to sewer pipelines and trunk mains in Umhlanga where teams are working round the clock to clear overflowing manholes.

Work is also progressing well at the Northern Wastewater Treatment Works which has been largely responsible for contaminating the uMgeni River and nearby beaches.

Significant headway has been made in the repair work considering the damage which was extensive. This is evident in the improvement of beach water quality which has allowed the city to open many of the beaches.

The City is also aware of overflows in some areas resulting from damaged trunk mains whose repairs are not yet complete, and in this regard, the City continues to frequently monitor beach water quality to ensure that we make an informed decision for public safety.

For the rest of the beaches that are still contaminated, the City is working as fast as it can to finalise repairs.

ENDS

Issued by eThekwini Municipality’s Communications Unit. For media enquiries.