Sewage Contamination Plagues Ncandu River at Newcastle Golf Club

Newcastle’s water and sanitation infrastructure has long been a recurring concern. However, out of the public eye, the state of the Ncandu River flowing through a section of the Newcastle Golf Course highlights a deeply troubling example of the declining sanitation system.

Flowing past Hole 16 at the Newcastle Golf Club, the Ncandu River is overwhelmed by aquatic vegetation to the extent that it no longer flows as freely as it once did. Furthermore, a steady flow of sewage is currently entering the river at the golf course.

A community member, who was recently at the Newcastle Golf Club, expressed his shock at the condition of the river while he was enjoying a day on the fairway. “The smell of sewage was undeniable, and the vegetation growing because of the sewage is affecting the flow of the river. Something needs to be done to resolve this issue, as it cannot be left there, especially considering the number of people who play golf in the area,” the man explained.

The issue of sewage entering the river, according to an official source from the golf club, stems from a problem with the sewage pump station on Vanderbijl Street. “The pumphouse is not functioning properly, and this is now the result. If something isn’t done soon, the situation will only get worse as the vegetation is becoming thicker and thicker. On some days, the smell of the sewage is unbearable. The Department of Water and Sanitation has come to investigate the matter, and we are hoping that something will be done,” said the source.

As the state of the river presents a grim picture of the town’s infrastructure, Newcastle Municipality’s Councillor Bertie Meiring explained that the Municipality would need to address the situation and remove all the vegetation from the river.

Regarding the sewage flowing into the Ncandu River, Cllr Meiring emphasised that the Municipality is in the process of addressing the water and sanitation infrastructure issues. “This includes clearing the stormwater drains, which often contribute to sewage overflow, and addressing the ageing infrastructure,” explained Cllr Meiring.

It should be noted that, as reported by Newcastillian News on 20 November 2024, the Newcastle Municipal Manager, Zamani Mcineka, confirmed that the Municipality is actively taking steps to address the sewage and water infrastructure problems. This will include repairing problematic pumphouses, such as the one affecting the Ncandu River running through the golf course.

To read more about the planned work, click here.

While Cllr Meiring and the Municipal Manager assure the public that the Municipality is working to repair the current state of the local water and sewage infrastructure, Newcastle Municipality’s Cllr Zwe Nxumalo emphasised that all water and sewage issues could be resolved through proper maintenance.

“While the Municipality is facing financial difficulties, officials must work together to address these issues, as we do not want residents to be impacted by municipal shortcomings,” said Cllr Nxumalo.

He further noted that when the necessary work is being carried out, it is essential for municipal officials to monitor the workmanship closely to ensure that no substandard work is done. Additionally, it is vital that the contractors employed are qualified for the work and secure their tenders through proper and transparent methods.

With this in mind, what are your thoughts on the issue? Share your views in the comment section below.