Rural-Urban Migration Exacerbates BYO Water and Sewage Crisis
The Bulawayo City Council has linked the frequent sewage backups to a rise in rural-to-urban migration, which has led to overburdened infrastructure.
Bulawayo city is expanding with new areas like Emganwini, Emthunzini, and the Magwegwe North Extension currently being developed.
A council document concerning the sewerage division revealed that local officials were worried about the repeated bursting of sewage pipes, which puts citizens at risk for water-related illnesses.
The indications suggest that several sewage repair initiatives are scheduled in the city.
Council member Tinevimbo Maposa urged the local government to restore the urban wastewater management infrastructure, with an emphasis on the older high-population areas.
"The majority of these regions have seen their sewage systems fail," the minutes stated.
Many of the issues with sewage are connected to the availability of water. If the city enjoyed a consistent water supply, it would likely face fewer sewage problems.
The design of the sewage system ensures continuous flowing water to avoid sludging.
There are inhabitants who intentionally damage the sewage system by inserting harmful substances into it.
Council member Khalazani Ndlovu praised the council for addressing sewage spills effectively.
"The system is overstretched due to people moving from rural areas to cities," Ndlovu stated.
Councillor Adrian Moyo agreed. He praised the committee and department for the sewage system repair carried out by a private company in Ward 2.
Residents ought to be alerted about disposing of inappropriate items in the sewage system.
Councilman Felix Madzana voiced his worries about the malfunction of the vehicle assigned to monitor ward 18.
Madzana mentioned that this led to a buildup of pending cases for responding to sewer bursts, and she emphasized that schools along with other public institutions should take precedence.
Mayor David Coltart commended the environmental management and engineering services committee along with the engineering department for addressing the issues related to sewage systems.
As stated by the city council's engineering services division, Bulawayo's water and sewage systems have exceeded their useful life span.