Pump failures spark stench at top Knysna attraction

The gem of the Garden Route has been giving off quite a stink recently after a sewage leak left a pungent stench and unwelcoming atmosphere at the Knysna Waterfront. This led to the Knysna Yacht Club’s interclub regatta being cancelled after residents and club members raised concerns about the sewage spillage and stench. Several businesses have added their voices to the outcry amid concerns about the infrastructure security and stability.

Greater Knysna Business Chamber (GKBC) chair Beverley Pothier said while sewage spills and pump station failures were a serious concern, much of the stench recently reported in the Knysna CBD precinct was believed to originate from the Waste Transfer Station. “The odour is especially severe on days when the station is not operational and waste builds up outside, as was the case this week, or when wind conditions push the smell into the lower CBD area,” Pothier said. “Restaurants and businesses in this area have reported that patrons leave due to the smell, and business owners have indicated they are forced to close windows and doors as the odour permeates their premises.

“This odour pollution negatively affects the local business environment and may constitute a violation of environmental regulations.” Acting municipal manager Richard Martin confirmed a pump failure was reported on February 4. Martin said a technical team was dispatched to investigate and it was discovered that the pump station had been vandalised. “To mitigate any potential environmental impact and service disruption, vacuum trucks were deployed to service the pump station from February 4 through to February 7,” he said. “During this period the damaged pump was removed and replaced with a new duty pump, restoring the station’s functionality.