The Devon wastewater treatment works has been non-operational for years due to mismanagement and infrastructure decay in the ANC-controlled Lesedi Local Municipality (Heidelberg, Ratanda and Devon).
Untreated sewage is flowing directly into farm dams and rivers, causing fish to die and livestock to become seriously ill.
On Saturday, the Freedom Front Plus (VF Plus) visited a farmer whose land borders on both the water treatment works and the Wilger River. He has been forced to move his livestock to other parts of the farm to prevent them from contracting more illnesses.
The animals are currently suffering from severe diarrhoea, which is suspected to have been caused by the contaminated water.
One of the farmer’s dams is situated right next to the treatment plant. Untreated sewage flows directly from the municipal dams into his own dam.
The same dam is located near an informal settlement and residents regularly fish there. The farmer has repeatedly warned them not to eat the fish, but many simply rinse the fish with soapy water and proceed to sell them.
During the visit, several dead fish were found along the banks of the dam.
The Freedom Front Plus immediately contacted Star Mamobela, the Acting Head of the Department of Infrastructure. He undertook to visit the farm this week.
The party will monitor the situation closely and keep pressuring the Municipality until the wastewater treatment works is repaired or a permanent alternative is found.
On 4 November, voters have the opportunity to send a clear message by voting for the Freedom Front Plus, which prioritises service delivery, repairs infrastructure and holds incompetent officials accountable.
It is time.
