Impact Report | Pressure mounts on pollution, justice and community safety

The Witness continued to focus attention on issues affecting communities across KwaZulu-Natal, from the pollution crisis at Albert Falls Dam to illegal dumping and men’s wellbeing. Environment: Calls grow to save Albert Falls DamThe Witness highlighted the worsening pollution crisis at Albert Falls Dam, detailing the impact of failing municipal sewer infrastructure, ageing pipelines, pump station failures and weak enforcement on one of KwaZulu-Natal’s key water sources. The reporting showed how raw sewage continues to flow into rivers feeding the dam, with experts warning of risks to water security, public health, agriculture and tourism.

Following the coverage, a public petition was launched calling for urgent intervention to protect the dam and address years of infrastructure neglect. uMngeni-uThukela Water said many pollution incidents occur within municipal sewer networks under the responsibility of Water Services Authorities. The issue has nevertheless added to calls for co-ordinated action, infrastructure upgrades and stronger enforcement to prevent further deterioration of the dam’s water quality.

Municipal: Residents demand action over abandoned containers, illegal dumpingThe Witness investigated complaints about abandoned shipping containers on a vacant property in Pietermaritz Street, Pietermaritzburg, where residents say the site has become a haven for vagrancy, alleged drug use, illegal dumping and open defecation. Residents said the containers, previously used as tuckshops, were moved onto the property after the March and March campaign calling for the deportation of undocumented immigrants. Families said they were now afraid to let their children play outside because of growing health and safety concerns.

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The Witness established that the property’s sale remains incomplete, despite a prospective buyer placing the containers on the site. Ward councillor Dante Kemp and Msunduzi Municipality responded to the concerns.

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