Lentswe, Klerksdorp - The DA in Matlosana has expressed deep concern over the increasing number of properties where rainwater downpipes are being illegally connected directly into the sewerage system. This unlawful practice is placing a severe strain on the sewer network, making it a major contributor to the frequent blockages, overflows, and spillages residents’ experience, says Cllr Gerhard Strydom.
According to him sewer pipelines are not designed to carry the large volumes of storm water being diverted into them during rainfall. “This system overload causes sewer water to overflow into streets, private yards, and even homes,’’ which he warns poses serious health risks, damages property, and contaminates the local environment.
The DA is urgently calling on the Municipal Manager to instruct all Building Inspectors to conduct a comprehensive investigation into properties with these illegal gutter-to-sewer connections. Also that all non-compliant connections must be identified and removed without delay, and that property owners be compelled to redirect storm water into lawful drainage systems.
The DA warned that a failure to act decisively will accelerate the collapse of critical infrastructure, increase maintenance costs, and expose residents to ongoing health hazards.
