Cape Town’s Approach to Eliminating Sewer Spills

Cape Town is implementing a new approach to managing sewer spills by investing in cutting-edge technology, new vehicles, and expanded teams. The city’s goal is to minimize the occurrence of sewer spills by implementing proactive measures while improving incident response times.

The Impact of RIMA

Cape Town is close to completing a 100% rollout of Reactive Incident Management Application (RIMA), a mobile application that streamlines the response to sewer spill incidents. RIMA’s integration across 17 water and sanitation depots has increased the efficiency of first responder teams in addressing and resolving these issues.

Residents can submit online service requests, which are then relayed directly to depots and teams equipped with handheld devices loaded with RIMA. Additionally, subscribers can receive real-time updates on the progress of their service requests.

RIMA enables first responders to document evidence of sewer repairs in real-time, providing increased transparency and accountability. The system also helps the city evaluate the labor, travel, and vehicle costs associated with each incident, optimizing the management of resources.

Investments in First Responder Resources

Cape Town is making substantial investments in its first responder resources, including eight new teams established since November 2022 to deal with sewer pump station spills. The city has also invested in 23 new jet-vac trucks, enhancing its proactive sewer cleaning and incident response capabilities.

Long-Term Solutions

Beyond improving incident response times, Cape Town is also focusing on long-term solutions to minimize sewer spills. These efforts include significant investments in infrastructure, such as bulk sewer upgrades, pipe replacement, proactive cleaning of sewer lines, and expanding first responder resources. Digital coordination systems, including early warning telemetry at all sewer pump stations, complement these initiatives.

Reporting an Incident

Residents can report a sewer or water incident through the city’s website or by downloading the City of Cape Town app. The app is available on the Apple App Store, Google Play Store, and will soon be added to the Huawei Gallery.

Through its innovative investments and proactive approach, Cape Town is poised to set a new standard for urban infrastructure management and environmental sustainability. The city’s comprehensive strategy to minimize sewer spills through the incorporation of technology, investments in resources and infrastructure, and a focus on long-term solutions promises a brighter future for Cape Town.