Water and Sanitation Deputy Minister Dr Jack Bloom will conduct an oversight visit to Mangaung Metropolitan Municipality in the Free State to investigate reports of sewage pollution and safety concerns following repeated drownings at an unsecured quarry.
The visit on Monday, 12 October 2026, will include inspections of Sterkwater and Botshabelo wastewater treatment works, an investigation into reported sewage contamination of the Renosterspruit, and an assessment of safety measures at Heidedal Quarry.
“The oversight visit will focus on the condition of wastewater infrastructure, environmental compliance, the impact of pollution on surrounding communities and water users, and the measures required to address the reported problems,” the department said in a statement on Friday.
At Sterkwater Wastewater Treatment Works, Bloom will assess the operational condition of the facility, critical equipment, maintenance backlogs and effluent quality. He will also examine environmental compliance and the timelines for necessary repairs.
At Renosterspruit, the Deputy Minister will investigate the reported sources and extent of sewage pollution, its impact on residents and farmers who use the water, and the measures being taken to address the contamination. He will also establish which authorities are responsible for remediation.
At Heidedal Quarry, Bloom will inspect access to the site, the adequacy of fencing and other safety measures following reports of repeated drownings. He will also seek to establish who is responsible for securing the quarry.
The final stop will be Botshabelo Wastewater Treatment Works, where the Deputy Minister will investigate reports of untreated or partially treated wastewater being discharged from the plant.
The inspection will focus on the plant’s operational performance, maintenance, environmental compliance, and potential risks to surrounding communities and downstream water resources. – SAnews.gov.za
