By Lisa Dube
Residents of Ward 23 have raised concerns over persistent sewer bursts in their community, warning that delays in fixing the problem are putting their health at risk.
Despite efforts by the Bulawayo City Council (BCC) to repair the burst sewer lines, the issue keeps recurring, leaving residents exposed to sewage flowing through the streets and into their yards, accompanied by a foul stench.
Speaking to CITE, residents expressed particular concern over the health risks posed to children who play outside near the contaminated water.
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“Our children are at risk of contracting diseases like cholera and typhoid because they often play outside where raw sewage is flowing,” said one resident, who identified herself only as MaNdlovu.
“We can’t monitor them all the time because we have other household chores to attend to.”
Another resident, Nobuhle, complained about the large flies attracted by the sewage.
“Burst sewers attract flies, creating unhygienic living conditions. Although BCC tries to fix the problem, the bursts usually resurface within a few days.”
Ward 10 Councillor Ntombizodwa Khumalo explained that the city council responds to sewer bursts as reports come in.
“The city council has a three-year contract with a company responsible for attending to sewer bursts,” said Cllr Khumalo.
“The sewer system relies on water to function properly. However, due to ongoing water shortages, its efficiency is severely compromised.”
Residents believe that replacing the sewer pipes would provide a long-term solution. They urged the council to install new pipes that can accommodate the area’s growing population.
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