The Bulawayo City Council has linked the frequent sewage backups to a rise in rural-to-urban migration, which has overwhelmed the infrastructure.
The city of Bulawayo is expanding with new areas like Emganwini, Emthunzini, and the Magwegwe North Extension currently being developed.
A council report on the sewerage sector revealed that local officials were worried about the repeated bursting of sewage pipes, which could expose inhabitants to water-related illnesses.
The indications suggest that several sewer improvement initiatives are scheduled in the city.
Council member Tinevimbo Maposa urged the local government to restore the urban wastewater management infrastructure, with an emphasis on the outdated areas of high population density.
The minutes stated that in most of these regions, the sewage infrastructure has failed.
Many of the issues with sewage are connected to the availability of water. If the city enjoyed a consistent water supply, it would likely face fewer sewage problems.
The design of the sewage system ensures continuous flowing water to avoid slugging.
There are inhabitants who intentionally damage the sewage network by introducing harmful substances into the system.
Council member Khalazani Ndlovu praised the council for addressing sewage overflow issues effectively.
“The system is overstretched due to migration from rural areas to cities,” Ndlovu stated.
Councilman Adrian Moyo agreed. He commended the committee and department for the sewage system repair carried out by a private company in Ward 2.
Residents ought to be cautioned about disposing of inappropriate items in the sewage system.
Councilor Felix Madzana voiced his worries about the malfunction of the vehicle assigned to monitor ward 18.
Madzana mentioned that this led to a delay in addressing sewage overflow issues, emphasizing that schools and other public facilities should take precedence.
Mayor David Coltart commended the environmental management and engineering services committee along with the engineering department for addressing the issues related to sewage systems.
As stated by the city council’s engineering services department, Bulawayo’s water and sewage systems have exceeded their useful life span.
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