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The Democratic Alliance in eThekwini has written to the Head of eThekwini Water and Sanitation, Mr Ednick Msweli and the City Manager, Mr Musa Mbhele to provide urgent comment and proof of the required permissions for the dumping of raw sewage at Ohlanga River.

We are extremely concerned about pictures that have been circulating on social media since Friday showing what appears to be sludge/sewage being dumped into the already troubled oHlanga River.

Mayor Mxolisi Kaunda's desperate effort to reopen beaches for swimming by December 1 2022, has shown that corners may have been cut, which will potentially result in further ecological and health ramifications for the surrounding areas.

As per the Guidelines for the Utilization and Disposal of Wastewater Sludge (TT349/99) Volume 3 of 5, Chapter 3 – Legal Requirements for the on-site and off-site disposal of sludge as published by the Water Research Commission, more specifically regarding off-site land disposal per the Environmental Conservation Act (Act No. 73 of 1989) Natural Environment Management – Waste Management Act a disposal site permit or water use authorisation would have needed to be obtained from either the Department of Environmental Affairs and Tourism (DEAT) or the Department of Water Affairs and Forestry (DWAF).

Given the proximity of the discharge to the Blackburn Village Informal settlement population, who utilise this region to commute to and from work, it is doubtful whether any permits were obtained.

The DA will pursue further action in line with legislation should the Municipality’s response leave much to be desired.

Issued by Councillor Nicole Bollman - DA eThekwini Whip – Community Services