Publications
Partners
The extent of the sewage crisis in Lichtenburg in the North-West province was highlighted recently when aerial photographs were taken, showing a 'river' of sewage flowing through nearby communities. Afriforum have been very vocal about the issue. We spoke to their provincial coordinator, Marcus Pawson. Watch.
The cause of the problem is a faulty sewage plant. The photos were taken by a local pilot and sent to AfriForum. The sewage problem is a major health risk and local residents are concerned that e.Coli-related illnesses might break out.
"According to Article 24 of the Constitution, municipalities have a responsibility towards communities regarding their health and safety as well as towards the environment. However, nothing is being done to ensure the safety of residents located close to the sewage problem," says Pawson.
"We have been warning the Ditsobotla Local Municipality and the Department of Water and Sanitation for two years. The AfriForum branch in Lichtenburg demands that the Municipality adhere to their responsibility and protect residents," says Johan Swart, Managing Member of the Lichtenburg branch.
AfriForum is in the process of obtaining sewage samples, which will be analysed to determine how serious the crisis is.
*News24 Live has reached out to the Department of Water and Sanitation for comment on this matter*
Follow all our latest videos by subscribing to our YouTube channel here and our Instagram feed here.
