Pollution in Onrus Estuary causes a stink

Writer: De Waal Steyn.

A public outcry followed the decision once again to close the Onrus lagoon for recreational use, after a sewage spillage resulted in high levels of E. coli and Enterococci bacteria.

According to Ward 13 Councillor, Jean Orban, the decision by the Overberg District Municipality (ODM) to close the lagoon was not taken lightly. “There was a sewage leak into the lagoon on 19 August during a power outage. Due to the outage, the pump station was disabled and the backup generator did not kick in because of a technical fault. This led to a build-up of sewage in the system and the resultant spill,” he said.

Shortly after the high levels of bacteria were detected a notice board was erected next to the lagoon, warning members of the public of the dangers and requesting them to steer clear of the water.

According to Liezl de Villiers, Senior Environmental Manager of the Overstrand Municipality (OM), a second water sample was taken as prescribed by the legislation. “While the results of the test are awaited, the lagoon must be closed for recreational use,” she said.

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