The City of Cape Town’s annual inland water quality report, released Tuesday, reveals that several local rivers, wetlands, vleis and other water bodies are contaminated with E. coli, solid waste and, in some cases, excessive nutrients, Cape {town} Etc reports.
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The City has released its Annual Inland Water Quality Report for the period of 1 October 2021 to 30 September 2023, detailing the ongoing efforts and challenges to improving water quality across rivers, wetlands, vleis and other inland water bodies.
This report underscores the City’s dedication to being transparent and accountable on the condition of its watercourses.
In line with Cape Town’s 2040 vision of becoming a water-sensitive city, the report highlights progress in improving inland water quality and ecosystem resilience despite urban development and climate change pressures.
Key findings from the report highlight ongoing challenges with nutrient enrichment, particularly high levels of phosphorus and nitrogen, which lead to excessive plant growth and eutrophic conditions, making water less suitable for use.
Sewage contamination (E. coli) remains a serious concern for public health and the environment, particularly in catchments that experience a relatively high frequency of sewage spills (largely due to vandalism and system misuse) and receive run-off from informal settlements often contaminated by greywater and sewage.
Additionally, illegal dumping of solid waste in rivers and stormwater systems continues to impact aquatic ecosystems and complicate stormwater management negatively.
The City has implemented several initiatives to improve inland water quality, including the Mayor’s Priority Programme for Sanitation and Inland Water Quality, which aims to reduce pollution in Cape Town’s waterways while improving aquatic ecosystem health.
Additionally, the Liveable Urban Waterways Programme focuses on rehabilitating waterways to foster biodiversity, recreational opportunities and community involvement.
Currently, five projects are under way, with additional ones planned.
According to the City, a total of R2 billion has been allocated for this 2024/2025 financial year alone for extensions and upgrades at wastewater treatment works (WWTWs) and R1 billion towards projects aimed at preventing sewer overflows, such as pump station upgrades, sewer cleaning and replacement programmes.
‘Improving inland water quality is everyone’s business,’ said Mayoral Committee Member for Water and Sanitation Councillor Zahid Badroodien.
‘The City’s initiatives are a testament that we are committed to addressing water quality challenges and investing in our sewer infrastructure, but residents also have a part to play in preventing pollution.’
‘We appeal to all communities to support these efforts by properly disposing of their waste, reporting sewage overflows and protecting our water resources.’
‘All of us need to team up – the City, residents, businesses, industry and other spheres of government – so that together we can tackle inland water quality to benefit our community and environment,’ said Councillor Badroodien.
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Picture: Misha Jordaan / Gallo
