The City of Tshwane has confirmed that partially treated effluent has entered the Rietvlei Dam through the Sesmyl Spruit, prompting authorities to begin immediate water-quality testing and monitoring.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, the city assured residents that there is no need for alarm, saying the situation is being “closely managed by the relevant departments.”
According to the city, environmental specialists have been deployed to assess the extent, source and possible impact of the contamination. While the investigation continues, residents are urged not to fish or use the dam water for recreation, informal consumption or any other purposes. Any activities undertaken at the dam will be at residents’ own risk.
“Our teams are working with environmental specialists to stabilise the situation and ensure that all necessary precautionary measures are taken,” the City of Tshwane said. The municipality added that it is also working with partner institutions to strengthen the protection of the water resource.
The city reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding public health and the integrity of natural assets, saying updates will be issued as soon as verified information becomes available.
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