Image created by AI

Cape Town's Coastal Crisis: Health Risks Rise With Sewage Pollution

Published October 28, 2024
16 days ago

The pristine image of Cape Town's beaches is under threat as reports of escalating sewage pollution along the coastline raise grave concerns about public health and environmental damage. Dr. Jo Barnes, a senior lecturer in the Department of Global Health at Stellenbosch University, spotlights the severity of the issue following comprehensive testing by health and water quality experts.





Evidence points to Cape Town’s rivers, channels to the sea, as carriers of significant sewage pollution. Particularly worrisome is the case of the Disa River, where E-coli levels surpass acceptable standards by a staggering margin, indicating severe pollution. Dr. Barnes cites over 8 million E-coli organisms per hundred milliliters of water where the national exposure standard is just 500 organisms.


While the City of Cape Town assures the public of excellent water quality at most beaches during peak season, the presence of untreated sewage—processed through minimal sieving before marine outfall—stands as a testament to ongoing challenges. Dr. Cleeve Robertson, former CEO of the National Sea Rescue Institute (NSRI), echoes concerns, specifically pointing to the visible sewage slicks near outfalls that impact adjacent beaches.


The city responds to such alarming claims by highlighting the seasonal improvement in beach water quality and ongoing water quality monitoring. Coastal manager Greg Oloefse offers reassurances, noting reduced risk at recreational hotspots and advising swimmers on cautionary measures such as avoiding river outflow areas and stormwater drains, particularly after high rainfall.


The city has undertaken initiatives such as replacing aging sewer pipes and advancing wastewater treatment plant projects to tackle the issue head-on. City Mayco member for water and sanitation, Zahid Badroodien, underscores the extensive investment in infrastructure and the establishment of catchment management forums aimed at engendering community participation in ecosystem stewardship. Educational campaigns form part of this holistic approach to mitigate inappropriate waste disposal and its detrimental effect on waterways.


This call to action is not just about safeguarding Cape Town's coveted tourist appeal but, more critically, about protecting the health of its residents and the delicate balance of its marine ecosystems. As Cape Town faces this coastal crisis, the collaborative effort between authorities, experts, and communities becomes vital in turning the tide against sewage pollution and ensuring the enduring beauty and safety of its famed shores.


Leave a Comment

Rate this article:

Please enter email address.
Looks good!
Please enter your name.
Looks good!
Please enter a message.
Looks good!
Please check re-captcha.
Looks good!
Leave the first review