At a recent City Council meeting, CAPEXIT Party Councillor Karl Bodin voiced concerns about the prolonged sewage crisis affecting Milnerton residents, describing it as both a public health emergency and an environmental hazard, Cape {town} Etc reports.
While acknowledging the City’s investment in infrastructure upgrades, Bodin criticised the slow progress and ongoing delays in addressing the pollution plaguing the Milnerton Lagoon, which he said has continued for more than five years. He shared personal accounts from residents who report severe health problems, including respiratory issues linked to the lagoon’s stench and contamination.
Among them are Terry van Schoor, a heart patient who experiences daily health complications, and Michaela Gabriel, who detailed multiple ailments she attributes to the conditions near the lagoon.
Bodin highlighted data showing E. coli levels at the Wooden Bridge had reached 1.3 million colony-forming units (cfu) per 100ml – more than 1 300 times above the safe limit. He linked these readings to untreated sewage discharged from the Potsdam Wastewater Treatment Works and Koeberg Pump Station, alleging that the City has failed to act decisively despite public commitments.
He also questioned the status of health warning signage and air quality testing promised in previous engagements with the community.
Bodin criticised the City’s 2023 remediation plan, citing failed aeration trials and a lack of progress on dredging efforts. He noted the broader socio-economic impact on the area, including declining property values and resident dissatisfaction.
Calling for immediate action, Bodin urged the City to fast-track upgrades to the affected infrastructure, stop sewage inflows, and increase transparency through the release of air quality data.
‘Every day of delay poisons our people and their hope,’ Bodin said, urging the City to act swiftly.
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Picture: Unspalsh
