EThekwini Municipality would like inform residents that two process units at the Southern Wastewater Treatment Works, which discharges effluent into the Indian Ocean, have failed following last week’s heavy rainfall.
There was a mechanical failure of two pumps at low-level sump that pumps effluent out to the sea. The two units had to be put offline to effect necessary repairs, resulting in the overloading of the low-level sump and thus carry-over onto the Merebank’s Cuttings Beach.
Both units are currently being repaired and are expected to be back online early next week. Overflow to the beach has subsided due to low incoming flows and the effluent is currently contained in the low level sump.
Head of Water and Sanitation Ednick Msweli said that the effluent will be aerated to increase oxygen levels and to assist aquatic life.
“It will also be monitored and sampled daily with samples being sent to the laboratory for testing. The community is prohibited from using Cuttings Beach for fishing or any other recreational activities during this period. The affected areas will be demarcated with relevant signage and the Municipality will undertake all necessary action to ensure that the situation is normalised as soon as possible,” said Msweli.
The Municipality regrets any inconvenienced caused by this situation which was beyond its control. The Municipality also wishes to thank the affected communities for their patience and understanding.
ENDS
Issued by eThekwini Municipality’s Communications Unit Head, Tozi Mthethwa.