The ongoing sewer issue on Sheringham Road in Overport continues to disrupt the community, with residents and ratepayers expressing deep frustration over the lack of effective action from local authorities. Councillor McKenzie has managed to get the sewer department to attend to the issue, which has been a long-standing problem in the area, but despite efforts to resolve the situation, the challenges remain.
According to the councillor’s report, officials have identified several key issues that contribute to the recurring sewer blockages. The primary cause has been linked to sand from a nearby construction site, which has clogged the drains. While the sewer lines are cleared periodically, the situation is exacerbated by the disposal of foreign objects—such as sanitary towels, newspaper, and other non-biodegradable materials—which are frequently extracted from sewer manholes. These items are not only contributing to blockages but are also putting additional strain on the already overstretched sewer infrastructure.
One of the most troubling challenges, however, is the overall lack of resources and manpower across all involved departments. There are also broader contributing factors that have worsened the sewer crisis in Overport. The area has been plagued by illegal dumping, and the land on which these issues persist was abandoned, leading to the establishment of shacks in the area. Councillor McKenzie noted that the land is unsuitable for residential living, and the municipality has failed to secure a more appropriate space for residents. The lack of ablution facilities on the land has created severe health risks for both ratepayers and the residents living in the shacks.
“Living conditions in this area are appalling,” Councillor McKenzie stated. “No human being should be expected to live in such squalor. Residents are left with no choice but to use plastic to relieve themselves, which is then thrown into bins that DSW staff are forced to clean. This is a public health crisis waiting to happen.”
The councillor highlighted the blatant disregard for human rights, particularly in relation to the denial of access to basic needs such as proper sanitation, food, and healthcare. She condemned the municipality’s lack of action, describing the situation as a violation of human rights.
“The reality is that the municipality is well aware of these issues, yet it continues to turn a blind eye and ignore the plight of these residents,” Councillor McKenzie said. “This is not just an issue of poor infrastructure; this is a failure to protect vulnerable groups and a denial of access to basic human rights.”
The frustration among ratepayers is palpable, as the ongoing sewer issues are not only a health hazard but also negatively impact property values and businesses in the area. The councillor expressed her own frustration with the lack of will to address the problem, pointing out that despite her repeated referrals to the relevant departments, there is no tangible progress.
“There is a general complaint across the board that the departments are understaffed and underfunded, but this cannot be an excuse for the failure to act,” Councillor McKenzie said. “Ratepayers are paying for services that they are not receiving, and the value of their properties and businesses is being directly affected by the municipality’s inaction.”
In her report, the councillor made it clear that the owners of private property in the area should be held accountable for the upkeep of the land. The lack of budget and resources in the municipality is not a justification for the failure to address these urgent issues, and residents have every right to demand better conditions.
As the situation continues to worsen, Councillor McKenzie has urged the municipality to take immediate action to rectify the sewer problems, improve the living conditions for the residents, and address the systemic issues of illegal dumping and infrastructure neglect. However, with the municipality seemingly unable—or unwilling—to make significant changes, it remains to be seen whether these appeals will be answered in a timely and effective manner.
EThekwini Municipality was contacted for comments, however, none was received at the time of going to print.
