According to DA spokesperson, Veronica van Dyk, this is not the first time that sewage spills accumulate in the veld outside Koingnaas. Furthermore, the DA has reported the matter to the Environmental Management Inspectorate, or Green Scorpions, who have directed all their efforts to rectify the issue.

OFM News awaits a response from the NC Health Department to a detailed set of questions.

According to Van Dyk, mosquitoes and insects have started breeding there in addition to the major concern, that lies with the possible contamination of the groundwater which would leave two towns without drinking water. She says it is crucial that the municipality ensures that these resources are attended to immediately.

Van Dyk adds that the issue was reported to the Green Scorpions in 2020, however, their actions were limited as the sewage had already desiccated. She notes that the community has time and again written to the municipality; informing them about their grievances with regards to the sewage spills. The pools of accumulated sewage run alongside the pipeline that runs towards the sewerage works, says Van Dyk.

Moreover, the Green Scorpions have deemed this issue unacceptable and have conducted further investigations into this six-month-long sewage crisis.

“It is high time that Kamiesberg is held accountable for failing in its mandate to protect the environment and our scarce water source. It is also clear that remedial action will have to be enforced upon the institution, as it lacks the political will to fix the problem.”

She concludes by reiterating that sewage spills have become increasingly threatening to the Northern Cape Province. It is therefore important that the responsible municipalities much ensure that services are delivered effectively.

OFM News/Lee Simmons