As part of the preparation leading up to the final stages of repair, the area around the collapsed sewer main was excavated more than five meters deep so the pipe could be safely and unrestrictedly assessed and removed.

In the meantime, the contractor has implemented measures to prevent the sewage from entering the excavation site and also ensuring the continuous conveyance of the sewage volumes with onsite mobile pumps. Additional pumps are on standby to assist with managing the flow variance.

‘I am happy that our teams have reached the final stages of this complex repair where the installation has started after the pipes arrived this week. This project has not been an easy task due to its complexity, so it has not gone without its challenges. This includes factors such as rainy weather and vandalism of pumps and equipment on site over the Easter weekend. The City has however stated upfront that this is quite a complex repair job due to all the environmental, safety and continuous operational aspects which have to be taken into account, As proof thereof, we haven’t had any complaints relating to sewer overflows as a result of this bulk sewer collapse. Unfortunately, the work won’t be completed by the end of April as initially anticipated, but at soonest thereafter.

‘Timeframes for the completion of this project will be revised depending on the progress on site over the next few days.

‘Our teams are doing all they can do to ensure the work is done as soon as possible while also prioritising the safety of staff on site while on duty. The Directorate is continuously monitoring the progress on site.

‘In the meantime, thank you to residents and commuters for their patience and support throughout the repairs thus far and also now while this work is in its final stages,’ said Mayoral Committee Member for Water and Sanitation Councillor Zahid Badroodien.