The GOOD Party in Stellenbosch is calling on the Stellenbosch Municipality to urgently prioritise long-overdue infrastructure upgrades in Rustenberg Street, Idas Valley, after a serious sewage spill endangered the health and safety of a local family.
On 7 March 2025, Idas Valley resident Aubrian van Breda reported a blocked municipal sewer line that caused raw sewage to flood his property. The spill created hazardous, unhygienic conditions – exposing his household, including young children, to serious health risks. While municipal workers eventually repaired the blockage, no disinfectant or cleaning materials were provided to sanitise the area, leaving the family vulnerable for days.
This is not an isolated incident. According to municipal spokesperson Stuart Grobbelaar, the Rustenberg Street sewer line frequently blocks due to foreign objects entering the system. Although the Municipality indicated that the line would be replaced in July 2025, no progress has been made.
GOOD has submitted official inquiries to Municipal Manager Geraldine Mettler and MMC for Infrastructure Cllr Reginald Pheiffer, demanding:
- A full inspection of the Rustenberg Street sewer system.
- Immediate intervention to repair and upgrade the infrastructure.
- Improved sewage management to prevent future overflows.
This is a critical public health and environmental risk. The Municipality must act swiftly to prevent further harm and restore public confidence in service delivery. GOOD stands with the residents of Idas Valley in the fight for safe, dignified living conditions and responsive, accountable governance.
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