Stormwater connections in Kuils River soon subject to scrutiny

Residents of Kuils River can expect visits from City of Cape Town property inspectors from July as part of a survey to identify unsanctioned stormwater connections to the sewer network.

What is the survey about?

The City’s Water and Sanitation department, through its Water Demand Management: Water Pollution Control section, is conducting a stormwater-ingress survey across the area. The aim is to determine the extent to which stormwater is being discharged, without authorisation, into the sewer system rather than the stormwater drainage network.

According to the City, this type of ingress has a significant impact on the operations of the sewer system and on wastewater-treatment processes.

When will inspectors visit?

Inspectors will conduct property visits during the following times:

Weekdays: 15:30 to 18:00

Saturdays: 09:00 to 16:00

Residents are asked to cooperate with appointed inspectors to allow the survey to be carried out successfully.

How you can help protect the sewer system

One of the most common causes of stormwater entering the sewer system is incorrectly connected roof gutters and downpipes. Rainwater from roofs should drain to the street’s stormwater system or be stored for reuse, and not channelled into the sewer.

Residents can also help prevent blockages and sewer overflows by keeping the following in mind:

– Wipe fats, oils and grease from pans into the bin before washing up, and never pour them down the drain, as they harden and trap solids.

– Use sink strainers to catch food scraps and solids. Compost or bin fruit and vegetable peels rather than washing them down the sink.

– Never flush nappies, wet wipes, sanitary products, earbuds or other non-biodegradable items down the toilet. These do not break down and cause serious blockages.

– Never dump rubbish into manholes or the sewer system.

– Report missing manhole covers, blocked drains, burst pipes or illegal dumping to the City.

Blockages and overflows pose health risks, cause foul odours and pollute waterways as well as lead to avoidable repair costs.

Make an appointment or get more information

To make an appointment or ask questions contact one of the following:

Lzuko Sidondi:Luzuko.Sidondi@capetown.gov.za | 021 850 4095 or 079 824 5749

Molepana Ramonyai: MolepanaMartha.Ramonyai@capetown.gov.za | 021 444 9213 or 079 757 2589

Unathi Jonginamba: Unathi.Jonginamba@capetown.gov.za | 021 400 4300 or 083 789 8209

For general enquiries contact the Water Demand Management reception at 021 444 9210 or visit www.capetown.gov.za.

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