Help prevent sewer blockage, urge City of Cape Town

The City of Cape Town’s Water and Sanitation Directorate is urging Somerset West residents to help prevent sewer blockages. According to the municipality, kitchen fats and oils, sanitary products, rags and construction rubble illegally dumped in manholes are the highest contributors to sewer overflows in this area.

It said between July 2024 and March 2025, 280 sewer blockages were reported in Somerset West – significantly more than the 175 logged during the entire previous financial year.

COURTESY: City of Cape Town

Blockages caused by foreign items (including building material, sanitary products, and even nappies), have more than doubled. Sand and tree roots found in the sewer system are significantly higher; while blockages due to fats, oils and grease have increased more than fourfold.

The Westridge area accounts for 26% of the 280 sewer blockages logged in Somerset West. There were 73 incidents, of which 24 related to foreign objects and 33 to roots.

The Somerset West Business Park recorded nine incidents, eight of which were caused by foreign objects.

‘’Residents and businesses are primary roleplayers in keeping Cape Town’s sewers clear of foreign objects that when disposed of incorrectly, blocks pipes. Blockages result in sewer overflows on to our streets or in the environment, compromising hygiene and living conditions for communities, especially during winter,’’ said Zahid Badroodien, Mayoral Committee Member for Water and Sanitation.

‘’While these numbers for Somerset West may seem like just statistics, each blockage poses health and environmental risks which can be mitigated by a change in habits and awareness of how to responsibly dispose of waste,’’ he added.

During winter, increased rainfall typically leads to higher volumes of stormwater entering the sewer network, especially in areas where illegal stormwater connections exist or infrastructure is vulnerable. This can overload the system and worsen the impact of blockages, leading to more frequent overflows into public spaces and natural water sources.

‘’Proactive action by residents, supported by the City, is essential to help reduce the risks ahead of the rainy season and to protect the health and safety of our communities,’’ said Badroodien.

Done By: Elona Sibunzi