Residents of Bulawayo’s Cowdray Park have raised alarm over persistent sewer blockages and bursts, warning that the worsening crisis could trigger outbreaks of waterborne diseases if urgent solutions are not found.
Pools of raw sewage have become a common sight in sections of the high-density suburb, bringing foul smells, environmental pollution and growing health risks.
A local resident, Kelvin Sibindi, said recurring sewer bursts remain a major challenge despite repeated reports to the local authority.
“The problem keeps coming back,” he said.
“Council teams respond, but after a short while pipes burst again. Improper waste disposal by some residents is contributing, but we need a permanent solution.”
Ward 28 councillor Ntando Ndlovu acknowledged residents’ frustrations and indicated that council teams are actively responding to incidents while working on long-term fixes.
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“Some sections of Cowdray Park experience more frequent chokes due to ageing infrastructure and increased pressure from population growth,” Ndlovu said.
He noted that inconsistent water supply also worsens the problem, as sewer systems rely on adequate flow to achieve self-cleansing.
Ndlovu urged residents to avoid disposing of solid waste such as towels and plastics into the sewer system, saying these materials significantly contribute to blockages.
While no cholera outbreak has been recorded, he said authorities remain vigilant against waterborne diseases.
Residents, however, are calling for swift action, saying recurring sewage spills continue to threaten public health and the environment while affecting their quality of life.
Ndlovu said the council remains committed to both immediate interventions and long-term infrastructure upgrades for the rapidly growing suburb.
According to locals, families living near affected areas say they live in constant fear of disease, especially as children play close to sewage pools.
They want lasting solutions, not temporary fixes.