OUDTSHOORN NEWS - The Oudtshoorn Municipality made progress in addressing a major sewerage blockage in one of the town’s main outfall lines servicing areas east of the Grobbelaars River.
The blockage was the result of vandalism, where individuals attempted to steal steel reinforcement from a manhole cover. During the attempt, sections of the concrete slab fell into the manhole chamber, creating a severe obstruction inside the 630mm diameter sewerage pipe.
The manhole is over five meters deep, and due to the pipeline’s full-flow conditions and its location, between the Klein Karoo Markt Mall and Langenhoven Road, the operation remains highly technical and hazardous.
Municipal teams initially tried to clear the blockage over the weekend but were unsuccessful due to a lack of specialised equipment. A professional contractor was appointed and is now on site, working around the clock in collaboration with the municipality.
To mitigate environmental impact, a submersible pump has been installed upstream of the blockage. This pump diverts sewage via a temporary pipe to a downstream manhole, reducing the flow of sewage into the Grobbelaars River and allowing safer access for workers.
Despite these efforts, some sewage has already entered the river.
The incident has been reported to the Department of Environmental Affairs and Development Planning (DEADP), and is now working with the municipality to monitor the situation.
Several large obstructions have already been removed from the blocked line, including collapsed concrete, large stones and even a 20-litre paint bucket which is believed to have been dumped into the chamber during the act of vandalism.
A full river cleanup will begin once the sewer line is completely cleared and normal flow is restored. The municipality will also conduct an environmental impact assessment to determine the full extent of the damage.
Residents are urged to remain vigilant and to report any suspicious activity around municipal infrastructure.
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