Reporting sewer overflows in Cape Town

by
1 min read
sewer overflows load-shedding Cape Town

Cape Town residents urged to report sewer overflows

The City of Cape Town is urging its residents to report sewer overflows immediately through official city channels such as WhatsApp and the City’s website. It is essential to report these incidents promptly during high, prolonged stages of load-shedding and heavy rain when sewer spills and overflows are more likely.

Residents encouraged to report any sewer overflows

Residents are being encouraged to be the eyes and ears on the ground and report any sewer overflows and spills they witness. With the use of WhatsApp and the online portal, reporting these incidents is only a few clicks away. The City’s Water and Sanitation team has requested that residents upload photographs to help explain or provide context to their service requests.

Sewer pump stations require electricity

The City’s sewer pump stations require electricity to function effectively and convey sewage to Wastewater Treatment Works (WWTWS) where it can be treated. However, with high, prolonged stages of load-shedding, there could be sewer spills and overflows, despite the City’s contingency measures. Dumping inappropriate materials in the sewer system can also lead to blockages.

Rainwater adds to the strain on the system

During wet weather, rainwater can also enter the sewer network via broken or missing manhole covers, adding to the wastewater flowing through the pipes and placing more strain on the system. To reduce the load, residents need to ensure that their stormwater downpipes are not connected to the sewer gullies or infrastructure on their properties.

City implements measures to reduce impact of load-shedding

The City has implemented several measures to reduce the impact of load-shedding, including the installation of permanent generators at all wastewater treatment plants to keep priority treatment processes active, fitting larger priority sewer pump stations with permanent generators, and having maintenance staff on standby to use contingency measures such as mobile pumps and sewer suction tankers to reduce overflows.

Residents can help prevent sewer overflows

Residents can help prevent sewer overflows by not flushing anything other than human waste and toilet paper, using the City’s solid waste services provided to get rid of their waste, and checking for illegal stormwater-to-sewer cross-connections on their properties. They can also report sewer blockages and overflows so they can be cleared in a reasonable timeframe, given the current power situation, and report vandalism to the sewage reticulation system.

Official reporting channels

Residents can log water and sanitation service requests using one of the City’s official reporting channels, including WhatsApp, online, email, SMS, phone, or visiting a City walk-in centre. They can also submit photographs of the incident via WhatsApp, online, and email.

Working together to ensure an efficient sewer system

By working together and reporting issues promptly, residents can help ensure that the City’s sewer system functions effectively and efficiently, reducing the risk of sewer spills and overflows that can cause inconvenience and harm to the environment.

Tags:

You might be interested in

View all

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published.

south africa property ownership
Previous Story

South African City Launches Free Property Ownership Transfer Program

south africa infrastructure
Next Story

Cape Town To Invest R11bn In Infrastructure

Latest from Blog

racism slavery

A Disturbing Incident: Recollection of Slavery in a High School Incident

Students at a Cape Town high school were involved in a disturbing mock auction that resembled scenes from slavery. The incident, filmed and circulated on social media, triggered investigations by school officials and widespread indignation. A spokesperson for the Western Cape Education Department confirmed that the students’ actions were not in line with the values and principles of the department or the school. The incident highlights the need for ongoing dialogues about racial equality, mutual respect, and education on the lasting effects of historical crimes such as slavery.

ireland vfs global

The Evolving Global Travel Landscape: A New Chapter for South African and Botswana Nationals

South African and Botswana nationals now need to obtain a visa before travelling to Ireland, following the Irish Department of Justice’s appointment of VFS Global as its official partner for travellers from these two countries. The decision was made in response to a surge in International Protection applications from South African and Botswana nationals, and is aimed at aligning Ireland more closely with the Schengen Area. The move is part of a broader trend of countries modifying their immigration policies to balance security considerations, economic requirements, and aspirations to maintain an opendoor policy.

electric fence south africa

“Spearheading Safety: South Africa’s Revised Electric Fence Regulations”

South Africa’s Bureau of Standards has updated regulations for electric fences, with new rules requiring the use of premiumgrade materials, regular inspection schedules and enhanced testing methods after installation. The SANS 10222–3: 2023 Edition 5.1 requirements also include revised standards for warning sign placement and joint installation. Failure to comply with the standards can result in the denial of insurance claims, while consumers can request the Electric Fence System Installer number from installers and report improper conduct to the Department of Labour.

homelessness cape town

The Unfolding Homelessness Crisis in Cape Town’s Central Business District

The homelessness crisis in Cape Town’s CBD is becoming increasingly urgent, with hundreds of homeless individuals facing eviction. The city’s proposed solution, the Safe Spaces Initiative, provides shelter, meals, and vocational training to homeless individuals and is funded by the city. While some support the initiative as a way to preserve the dignity of the destitute, others argue for more comprehensive solutions, such as repurposing vacant buildings for permanent housing and addressing health and employment issues. The decision of how to tackle this issue has farreaching implications, making it a critical moment for the city.

south africa democracy

Examining the Path of Democracy: South Africa’s Transformation Over Thirty Years

Deputy President Shipokosa Paulus Mashatile emphasized the need for scientific and evidencesupported strategies to handle socioeconomic complexities, identified key issues integral to the nation’s developmental dialogue, including countering the impacts of climate change, capitalizing on the advantages of the African Continental Free Trade Area, and supporting peace initiatives on the continent. The conference reflected on the struggles, achievements, and aspirations of a nation striving to uphold principles of justice, equality, and social transformation.