Note to Broadcasters: Please find attached soundbites in English and Afrikaans by Arista Goosen
The Democratic Alliance (DA) will write to the Municipal Manager of the Mahikeng Local Municipality, Adv Dineo Mongwaketse, to request urgent intervention in the ongoing sewage overflow on Station Road in Mahikeng, near the KFC in the CBD.
This situation raises serious concerns about the capacity of the existing sewer infrastructure, which appears unable to cope with the increased demand from the North West Mall and the newly developed shopping centre across the road.
During an oversight inspection conducted yesterday, bystanders indicated that the municipality is required to unblock the sewer line on a near-daily basis. At the time of our visit, no intervention had yet taken place, leaving raw sewage pooling in the area and creating an unbearable stench (see photos here and here).
There are further allegations that sewage from this system is being diverted into a nearby stormwater pipe, which ultimately discharges into the Molopo River (see photo here). If confirmed, this practice must be stopped immediately, as it poses a serious environmental and public health risk.
Concerns have also been raised that some businesses along this sewer line may not be making use of proper grease traps, contributing to recurring blockages.
The continued overflow of sewage presents a significant health hazard not only to businesses operating in the area, particularly those handling food, but also to pedestrians and motorists who frequent the CBD.
The DA will also write to the Acting Municipal Manager of the Ngaka Modiri Molema District Municipality (NMMDM), Dr Auchalie Mothupi, to request an urgent investigation into allegations that health inspectors may be accepting bribes to overlook non-compliance with the Regulations Governing General Hygiene Requirements for Food Premises, the Transport of Food and Related Matters (R638 of June 2018).
We will further request that comprehensive compliance inspections be conducted at all affected establishments, and that the findings be made public to restore confidence among tenants and customers.
Failure to address this matter urgently will not only worsen public health risks but will also threaten the livelihoods of local businesses as customers are driven away by unsafe and unhygienic conditions.
The DA remains committed to upholding the rule of law and ensuring accountability. We will pursue all available measures to protect the health, safety, and economic wellbeing of residents and businesses in Mahikeng.