Sewage crisis in Mogale City chokes local businesses

JOHANNESBURG - The water pollution in Mogale City's rivers has "effectively killed" a fishing business in the area. 

The West Rand municipality has several broken wastewater pumps that have led to sewage leaks in its river systems. 

This has negatively impacted hospitality businesses that rely on the city’s natural beauty to attract customers. 

The Bain family bought the Brookwood Estate Trout Farm over two decades ago. 

The Bloubankspruit, which runs through the farm, used to be a consistent source of trout fish. 

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However, water pollution in the river has killed the fish and all marine life. 

Farm owner Bobby Bain said this has also effectively killed their business. 

"We used to have people every week. We had bookings for months and now chalet guests come and they are put off by the smell. And I don't blame them, the smell can be horrendous. So they have been standing empty for a while, and it's affecting the business," said Bain.

The dysfunctional Percy Stewart Wastewater Treatment Plant, which feeds into the river at the farm, requires at least R150 million to fix.