City conducts cleaning of Macassar Canal

17 April 2023

As part of the City’s Water and Sanitation Directorate’s Winter Readiness Program (pre-clean-up before winter rains) the City’s Catchment, Stormwater and River Management (CSRM) Department started conducting clean-up operations at the Macassar Canal earlier this week. This work is envisaged to be completed in the next two weeks. 

Labour-intensive teams attended to excess debris, vegetation, and silt within the canal that may have restricted the flow of water.

With an annual budget of R75 million and an approved additional R25 million in the 23/24 financial year for the cleaning of canals City-wide, this extra funding allows for improved cleaning frequency to critical areas with an emphasis on flood alleviation.

The frequency of the cleaning of canals is dependent on the availability of resources (budget) and prohibited cleaning periods due to the breeding season of certain faunal species (between October and January). A flood risk analysis also informs the frequency of cleaning.

'While some canals are hotspots for illegal dumping, people continue to dump all sorts of waste in and around the canals.  I want to encourage residents who live within proximity of our canals to be the champions of keeping the canals clean by reporting any illegal dumping. Do not use our canals as bins. Waste floats down the canals and builds up which creates a potential for serious flooding and damage to the environment. 

'Residents are encouraged to use the City's solid waste services provided to get rid of their waste. Recyclables can also be taken to their local drop-offs.

'Let's all work together to keep our communities, including our waterways, clean,' said Councillor Zahid Badroodien, the City's Mayoral Committee Member for Water and Sanitation.

The City is campaigning around illegal dumping on an ongoing basis. It launched a 24-hour toll-free number (0800 110077) to report tip-offs about illegal dumping activity. Those convicted of illegal dumping could be fined up to R5 000, have their vehicle impounded, or face a two-year prison sentence. In addition, for every report that leads to a fine and conviction, the City is offering a reward from R1 000 up to R5 000, depending on the offence.

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Published by:
City of Cape Town, Media Office