More sewage woes for Kamfers

PLANS to expand the sewerage infrastructure for the Roodepan housing development have sparked environmental concerns, with a local biologist warning that the project could threaten the delicate ecosystem surrounding Kamfers Dam.

- SANDI KWON HOO

The area once home to the near-threatened lesser flamingo may face serious ecological consequences if proper environmental safeguards are not put in place.

While no activity is evident on the site yet, it has been pointed out that additional strain on the sewerage system could jeopardise the potential return of flamingos to the pan.

President Cyril Ramaphosa officiated at the sod-turning ceremony of the R1 Billion Housing Project in January 2024, ahead of the national general elections.

However, the Department of Cooperative Governance, Human Settlements and Traditional Affairs (Coghsta) indicated in May that the Roodepan land parcel is a separate project and does not form part of the mega housing development.

With a by-election scheduled in Ward 1 on July 23, Premier Zamani Saul announced on June 25 that a contractor had been appointed to install sewerage, water, electricity, stormwater drainage, roads, and town planning infrastructure.

The biologist stated that water quality at Kamfers Dam has shown a slight improvement since a court order was obtained to address high E coli levels and reduce the water table.

“Since the Homevale Waste Water Treatment Plant (HWWTP) is only partially functional, excess sewage is being discharged into Kamfers Dam. If more water is introduced into the pan, it will affect the breeding area. Flamingos will only return if a fine balance is restored.”