Online Reporter
Debra Matabvu
Herald Reporter
TWO Harare City Council workers were killed at Morton Jaffray Waterworks near Norton this morning, the second fatal incident involving council workers in three months.
In a statement, the City of Harare said the workers were carrying out duties on a decommissioned clarifier when tragedy struck.
The circumstances leading to the deaths are still under investigation.
“Initial reports indicate that the employees were working on a decommissioned clarifier when tragedy struck,” said council.
“The City of Harare is investigating the incident. We extend our heartfelt condolences to the families, friends, and loved ones affected by this devastating loss.
“The City of Harare is fully committed to cooperating with the authorities as investigations continue into this tragic event.”
Police have since been notified and attended the scene.
The latest incident follows the deaths of two sewage works attendants at the Firle treatment plant in Glen View on August 28, after they reportedly inhaled hydrogen sulphide while conducting maintenance work.
That incident prompted investigations by the National Social Security Authority.
Firle, the city’s largest sewage treatment plant, processes wastewater from across Greater Harare and is known to produce hazardous gases such as methane, hydrogen sulphide, ammonia and carbon dioxide, which can trigger explosions or cause asphyxiation.
The City of Harare extended condolences to the families of the deceased and assured residents that water production and quality at Morton Jaffray remain unaffected.
