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 caused an overwhelming of the infrastructure systems.

The city of Bulawayo is expanding with new areas like Emganwini, Emthunzini, and the Magwegwe North Extension currently being developed.

A council document regarding the sewerage sector revealed that local leaders were worried about the repeated bursting of sewage pipes, which poses a risk of water-related illnesses for the community.

It appears that several sewage improvement initiatives are scheduled for implementation in the city.

Council member Tinevimbo Maposa urged the local government to restore the functionality of the city’s sewer network, with an emphasis on improving older areas where many people live closely together.

“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 slugging.

There are inhabitants who intentionally damage the sewage network by introducing harmful substances into the system.

Council member Khalazani Ndlovu praised the council for their efforts in addressing sewage spills.

“The system is oversubscribed because of rural to urban migration,” Ndlovu said.

“Councillor Adrian Moyo concurred. He applauded the committee and department for the sewer rehabilitation work done by a private contractor in ward 2.

“Residents should be warned against depositing wrong materials in the sewer system.”

Councillor Felix Madzana expressed concern over the breakdown of the truck used by the team covering ward 18.

Madzana said this caused a backlog in sewer burst attendance, adding that schools and other public institutions must be prioritised.

Mayor David Coltart hailed the environmental management and engineering services committee and the engineering department for dealing with sewage reticulation challenges.

According to council’s engineering services department, Bulawayo’s water and sewage infrastructure has outlived its lifespan.