Dear Editor
The DA has taken decisive action to safeguard the Orange River and Gariep Dam by exposing ongoing sewage pollution caused by the non-functional Nursery Pump Station in Aliwal North.
During a recent oversight visit, the DA found untreated sewage flowing directly into the Orange River – pollution that continues downstream into the Gariep Dam, a vital water source for surrounding communities and agriculture.
This ongoing untreated sewage discharge is a direct violation of the National Water Act and the National Environmental Management Act, which require urgent measures to prevent and remedy environmental damage. The situation threatens public health and the region’s water security.
I formally wrote to the ANC-led Joe Gqabi District Municipality on 23 September, demanding:
- A written rehabilitation plan to halt the pollution at its source.
- Immediate steps to contain further contamination.
- Long-term infrastructure plans to prevent future failures.
In its response on 29 September 2025, the Municipality confirmed that the discharge was caused by criminal vandalism of the pump station’s electrical infrastructure, despite existing security measures. The damage resulted in pump failure. The Municipality has since started repairs and committed to restoring operations by Sunday, 5 October.
The DA will monitor this deadline closely and take further action if necessary.
We will continue conducting oversight in inspections at valuable water resources in the Joe Gqabi District and will hold the Municipality accountable for any failures.
The people of the Eastern Cape deserve clean water, effective sanitation, and a safe living environment.
Regards
Marina van Zyl MP
DA New Horizon Constituency Leader