Significant progress has been made in repairing the collapsed Trappies Bulk Sewer pipeline in Strand, according to a recent update from the City of Cape Town’s Water and Sanitation Directorate.
It stated that emergency repairs were underway and long-term rehabilitation projects in the pipeline.
Following the initial collapse in Strand, six pumps were deployed to manage wastewater flow and prevent overflows. The City has confirmed no recent overflows directly resulting from the collapse, and affected streets have been cleaned. Shoring boards are now in place, and the emergency contractor has made headway in restoring flow through the damaged section, reducing pressure on the temporary pumps. Bucket cleaning continues on De Villiers and Munnik streets to facilitate the contractor’s work.
Looking ahead, a R145 million tender has been finalised for the rehabilitation of a 3,1 km section of the Trappies sewer, running from Main Road to the Lourens River sewer pump station. This project, spanning the remainder of this and the next financial year, will address structural deterioration causing frequent pipe bursts and overflows. Specifically, the tender covers Cured-in-Place-Pipe lining for sewer lines ranging from 500 mm to 900 mm in diameter. Further work on the main sewer line from Joubert Street to Main Road is currently being advertised.
The City acknowledged delays due to a contractor appeal and thanked the community for their patience.
The update also states that coastal water quality, impacted by the initial overflow, is showing significant improvement. Health warning signs remain in place at several points of Strand Beach, and additional sampling is being conducted twice daily at the swimming and surfing areas for the next two weeks.
A public meeting to discuss Helderberg infrastructure projects, including the sewer refurbishment, will be held in March. Details regarding the date and location will be released soon.
The City expressed its appreciation for the community’s cooperation and understanding during the repair process.
. For further information, residents can send enquiries via email to communications.waterandsanitation@capetown.gov.za.
