Pong pummeling punishes fuming residents
The consequences of human faeces and toilet paper damming up in a storm water drain are getting up the community's noses
RESIDENTS of Mzingwenya Reserve near eSikhaleni have had enough of being pong blasted by overflowing sewage and are raising a stink about the municipality’s tardy reaction in solving the problem.
The consequences of human faeces and toilet paper damming up in a storm water drain are getting up the community’s noses.
According to residents, the terrible smell began in December and this was immediately reported to the uMhlathuze Municipality, but so far no poo fighters have been dispatched to bring relief.
A resident said a house with illegal plumbing was identified as causing the spill and this was reported.
‘I went to the municipality’s eSikhaleni and Richards Bay offices and they promised to sort out the mess.
‘Almost two months later the problem has not been sorted out, and it is escalating and causing health risks.
‘The stench permeates through our houses and our children are getting sick. We can’t even eat because we are constantly being bombarded by the terrible odour,’ said the resident close to the drain.
Angry residents said the storm drains empty into the eMzingwenya River, which in turn, pollutes the eCubhu Dam.
‘Livestock and some households have to use that contaminated water.’ said a concerned homeowner and father.
A 73-year-old frail pensioner said it always felt as if she was dumped in a toilet.
Informal farmers who grow vegetables close to the storm drains have apparently stopped their activity because of visible human waste in the area.
According to the uMhlathuze Municipality spokesperson, Mdu Ncalane, the matter will be attended to urgently.
He requested residents to contact the municipality on 035 9075000 to report any concerns.
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