A sewerage overflow reported in the Amatist street area of Kuisebmond has been attended to and resolved, according to the Municipality of Walvis Bay.
The matter was brought to the Namib Times’ attention after residents reported serious sewerage problems affecting homes in the area. Residents alleged that sewage had been overflowing into homes through showers and basins, with some saying they had to walk through sewerage water to enter their houses. The Municipality confirmed that it was aware of the reported overflow and said its teams had attended to the matter.
According to the Municipality, the area is frequently affected by sewer overflows caused by blockages. “These blockages are caused by foreign objects being introduced into the sewer system by residents,” the Municipality said. It explained that such blockages restrict the normal flow of wastewater, which can result in sewage backing up within the sewer network.
The Municipality also pointed to plumbing connections at some properties as another contributing factor. It said some properties have plumbing installations that do not comply with the required standards, which can contribute to sewage backing up through internal fixtures such as showers and basins when the sewer system is obstructed.
The Municipality said its teams respond promptly when sewer overflows are reported. “Once a sewer blockage is reported, the relevant teams attend to the blockage and undertake the necessary unblocking to restore normal sewer flow,” it said. Where sewage has entered residential properties, the Municipality said assistance is also provided through the sanitisation of affected areas and the provision of cleaning materials, where required.
Residents are urged not to dispose of inappropriate materials into the sewer system. According to the Municipality, this can cause blockages and sewer overflows, resulting in disruptions that can affect surrounding households. Residents experiencing sewer blockages or overflows are encouraged to report them to the Municipality as soon as possible by calling 081 128 8324.
The Municipality said prompt reporting allows the relevant teams to attend to the matter as soon as possible.
By Eileen van der Schyff
