The Cradle of Humankind, a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its rich archaeological significance and spectacular landscapes, is currently facing a significant environmental crisis that has left locals and tourists alike in disbelief, reports Cape {town} Etc.
Social media platforms have erupted as netizens express their outrage over the pollution affecting one of South Africa’s most iconic tourist attractions.
Recently, a video shared by Tyrone Michael Gray on X has garnered considerable attention, revealing the alarming state of affairs at the site.
Raw effluent discharging for 126 days now. This pollution directly affects the Cradle of Humankind.
It’s been reported to the ANC Executive in Mogale City in November 2024.
Yet 126 days later here we are.
Here’s a clip from yesterday showing the current state of affairs. ?? pic.twitter.com/hq7VBnmQcz
— Tyrone Michael Gray (@TyroneMichaelG1) March 26, 2025
According to reports, raw effluent has been flowing from the Percy Stewart Wastewater Treatment Plant into the Blougatspruit, which in turn affects the Bloubankspruit and ultimately seeps into the Cradle of Humankind.
The shocking revelation has been ongoing for an astonishing 126 days, igniting criticism towards local government bodies for their inaction.
‘It’s been reported to the ANC Executive in Mogale City in November 2024. Yet 126 days later here we are,’ Gray lamented, illustrating the frustration felt by many.
The virality of the video highlights the increasing public awareness regarding the dire situation, which threatens not only local ecology but also the tourism sector that fuels the region’s economy.
Nicole van Dyk, a Member of the Gauteng Provincial Legislature, also weighed in on the issue, emphasising the importance of the Cradle as a tourist destination.
‘Much of the #G20 guests would love to see it, however it’s currently flooded with a whole grotesque manner of things. I know there was a Swedish film crew there in recent weeks,’ Van Dyk asserted, calling attention to the inconsistency of the municipal government’s handling of such a vital attraction.
According to the SABC, Mogale City local municipality says it has rolled out a programme to refurbish all non-operational pump stations. Priority was given to the problematic Munsieville, Magaliesburg Ga-Mohale, Brickvale and Pinehaven Pump Stations.
The municipality says although repair work was delayed by the need for imported equipment, five pump stations have been successfully refurbished and are now fully operational, at a total cost of R11 million, SABC reported.
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Picture: Screenshot / Tyrone Michael Gay / X
