WESLEY FORD|Published
Families living in adjoining homes in Wright Street, Woodstock, say they have spent nearly five years battling blocked drains, sewage problems and a persistent stench that they believe is attracting rats into their properties.
Residents say repeated attempts to resolve the problem have failed, while the City of Cape Town maintains that the pipeline responsibility is privately owned and must be repaired at the property owners' expense.
Residents frustrated by recurring blockages
One resident, who wished to remain anonymous, said sewerage sometimes backs up through a pipe in the ground near her bathroom and kitchen.
She believes the persistent smell is attracting rats into her apartment, creating further concerns for her household.
Neighbouring resident Alimah Hoosain said she was experiencing similar problems, including blocked drains and recurring sewerage issues.
Hoosain said she had called plumbers several times in an attempt to resolve the matter, but the problem continued.
“We would have the pipes cleaned today, and then it will fill up again at the end of the day,” she said.
She added that residents had contacted the City of Cape Town about the issue but were told the problem was inside their property and therefore a private matter.
According to Hoosain, the persistent stench has attracted rats, and she also raised concerns about snakes in the area.
City says pipeline is privately owned
The City’s mayoral committee member for water and sanitation, Zahid Badroodien, said the pipeline in question was a private combined sewer (PCS), which the municipality was not responsible for maintaining.
“It is the responsibility of the owners of the affected properties,” he said.
The Tatler asked the City whether a municipal representative could investigate if sewerage and water continued to flow from the affected pipeline.
Badroodien said the City’s Wastewater and Industrial Effluent By-law allows the municipality to take the necessary action where there is a risk to health or the environment. However, the cost of such action may be charged to the property owners.
He added that owners experiencing pipe installation problems should appoint a qualified private plumber to assess the condition of the pipes and carry out the necessary remedial work.
How residents can report rodent problems
Residents experiencing rat problems can log a service request through the City's online e-Services platform or contact its municipal call centre on 0860 103 089.
Residents can also email contact.us@capetown.gov.za or visit their nearest City Environmental Health office.
While the City has clarified responsibility for the pipeline, affected residents continue to face recurring blockages, unpleasant odours and concerns about rodents in their homes.