Online Reporter
Mthokozisi Ncube, Zimpapers Reporter
RAW sewage has burst again in Mabuthweni suburb near White City Stadium in Bulawayo, less than 48 hours after the area was cleared, leaving residents battling a foul stench for the second time in two days.
Residents say they have been choking on raw sewage for almost a month, with the latest spill once again flooding the area. The stench has permeated homes, children are unable to play outside and fears of a possible cholera outbreak are mounting.
Residents further revealed that the situation worsens whenever the area receives water under the city council’s weekly water-shedding schedule, as sewage backflows from toilets into houses.
“Cooking and eating have become a nightmare for us,” said one resident.
Ward councillor Lovewell Mwinde confirmed that the issue has been reported to the Bulawayo City Council, but said there has been no response so far.
“We have reported the problem and we are still waiting for the city council to attend to it. I have also established that Mabuthweni is not the only area affected by sewer bursts. Areas such as Njube, Mpopoma, Minyela, Pelandaba and Magwegwe are also experiencing similar challenges,” said Cllr Mwinde.
He added that the widespread nature of the problem could delay immediate attention to Mabuthweni.
