leaking sewer into the stream
john mthembu
A leaking sewer in Sinqobile, Emalahleni, has become a daily hazard. Sewage flows through the streets and into the nearby Ollifant River, creating unbearable living conditions and exposing families to serious health risks, like skin rashes.
The sewer has been leaking for a long time. It leaks every week or two weeks, with untreated sewage running openly before reaching the river. Children walk past it daily, residents endure the foul smell, and the once‑vital river can no longer be safely used.
This crisis is unfolding in Sinqobile, a settlement in Emalahleni, Mpumalanga — a region already burdened by environmental damage from coal mining and poor municipal service delivery.
The pollution stems from failed service delivery and neglect. The municipality has not repaired the sewer, allowing untreated sewage to contaminate both the streets and the river. Lack of accountability and infrastructure maintenance has deepened the crisis.
Families living near the sewer, like Steven’s household, face direct exposure. Children walking past the sewage daily are at risk of infections. The broader community, which relied on the river for domestic use, now faces unsafe conditions. The environment itself — the river and surrounding land — is polluted.
The leak has persisted for months, worsening over time. The situation has now reached a critical point where the community can no longer ignore the health and dignity risks.
Urgent repairs by the municipality are needed to stop the sewage leak. Community members, local organisations, and environmental groups must unite to raise awareness and demand accountability: stop sewage pollution and clean the river; improve sanitation infrastructure; amplify community voices to secure lasting change
The community calls on the Emalahleni Local Municipality and relevant authorities to act immediately. Environmental watchdogs and civil society groups are urged to support residents in demanding justice, clean water, and safe living conditions.
