Toxic fumes from sewer overflow in eThekwini

RESIDENTS of Mount Vernon and Hillary in eThekwini say their health is being affected by sewer problems in the area, where effluent is discharged into a nearby stream connected to the Umhlatuzana River.

- GCWALISILE KHANYILE

AN OVERFLOWING manhole near homes in Mount Vernon, Durban.

(LEON LESTRADE Independent Newspapers)

They stated that the toxic fumes have caused serious problems, including the burning of the eyes, nose, and throat. One resident explained that the smell is unbearable, and at times, pets faint and now have to be kept indoors.

The sewer overflow in the area began after the April 2022 floods, which left more than 400 people dead and damaged infrastructure and homes.

The matters were reported to the eThekwini Municipality, according to residents. In some instances, city officials came to the area, but the problems persist.

Dr Zara Seebran stated that she has lost her sense of smell and taste, and she is often ill due to toxic fumes from an overflowing manhole near her home.

“The stench is unbearable, but more than the smell, it is our environment, our families, and our pets that are getting ill with these toxic fumes. I can't keep my windows open because it’s difficult to breathe due to the smell of the sewer and the chemicals associated with it. We are all sick at home, and even my pets sometimes faint.

“I now keep my dogs indoors because one day, when I returned from work, I found that my pets had fainted from toxic fumes. Now I have to detox my dogs every week so that they don't fall ill or faint, and this has made life difficult for everyone at home;’ Seebran said.

She stated that city officials came to the area but did not fix the sewer issue. Instead, a fence was erected to separate the stream from homes, which they say does not help.