With winter on our doorstep, Cape Town residents are being urged to use official City channels to report weather-related faults such as sewer blockages, missing drain covers and vandalism.

The City of Cape Town’s Water and Sanitation Directorate said it has stepped up its winter preparedness efforts, clearing sewer networks with a focus on known problem areas.

This includes replacing damaged or missing manhole covers, jetting sewers, and clearing wet-wells and sand traps to accommodate heavier water flows and protect vital infrastructure.

“As of March, we had already exceeded our 200km target, clearing a total of 281km of sewer pipelines and smashing last year’s 266km record,” said Zahid Badroodien, Mayoral Committee Member for Water and Sanitation.

Despite the City’s R78 million investment in winter mitigation, residents are reminded that community cooperation is crucial.

Sewer blockages often result from the improper disposal of items such as nappies, sanitary products, fats, and oils, which should never be flushed or washed down drains. Residents are also warned not to tamper with manhole covers, especially to drain rainwater into the sewer system, as this causes overflows and environmental damage.

Tips for residents to prevent sewer blockages:

• Put a strainer in the sink to catch food or other waste before it goes down the drain and throw the solid waste in the bin.
• Wipe cooking fats, oil or grease off the pan. Don’t pour it down the drain.
• Don’t flush nappies and sanitary products. They absorb water and expand, which causes blockages.
• Check that rainwater gutters don’t flow into the sewer, as it overloads the system.
• Visit the City’s drop-off facilities to dispose of solid waste, recyclables, electronics, garage waste and builder’s rubble.
• Do not remove manhole covers to drain rainwater into the sewer system.

To report issues, residents can use the following channels:

• Online: www.capetown.gov.za/servicerequests
• Email: water@capetown.gov.za
• SMS: 31373 (160 characters)
• Phone: 0860 103 089
• City walk-in centres: www.capetown.gov.za/facilities

While WhatsApp reporting is currently unavailable, more information is available at bit.ly/3HCk9L9.

Residents are encouraged to report any faults promptly and responsibly.

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