Dear Editor
The Democratic Alliance (DA) is calling for immediate intervention to stop the environmental disaster caused by raw sewage flowing into the Great Fish River in Cradock, posing severe health risks to the community and devastating local ecosystems.
This pollution not only threatens wildlife but also endangers the well-being of Cradock’s residents. Reports of bacteria, including E. coli, are particularly concerning, and we call for immediate water testing and public disclosure of the results to ensure transparency and awareness.
Download photos here, here, here and here.
Despite multiple warnings from local DA councillors, the Chris Hani District Municipality has failed to act, allowing this crisis to escalate. As a result, we have written to the COGTA MEC, Zolile Williams, to request urgent intervention and to push the municipality to address its failing sewerage infrastructure.
If the situation persists and dangerous bacteria levels are confirmed, the DA will not hesitate to take legal action. We also urge the Green Scorpions and the Human Rights Commission to investigate this unacceptable health crisis.
Section 24 of the Constitution guarantees every citizen the right to an environment that is not harmful to their health and well-being. The Chris Hani District Municipality’s failure to uphold this section has placed all Cradock residents at risk, denying them a safe, healthy living environment.
The DA is fighting for the community’s right to clean water and a sustainable environment. We cannot afford any further delays. Swift, decisive action is needed to prevent this disaster from worsening. We stand with the people of Cradock and will not stop until their rights are respected and the crisis is resolved.
Regards
Heinrich Müller
EC Midlands Constituency Leader