Tests on water samples in the Swart River that flows into the sea near Milnerton Lake has E. coli levels up to 50 times higher than the maximum that should be allowed.
Test results were released by the AfriForum branch in Cape Town North who had independent tests performed on samples 1,3 km from the sea outlet. The laboratory found “disturbing” E. coli levels. “South African legislation does not allow any pollution, but regulations make provision for E. coli levels of up to 1 000 cfu/100 ml,” says Bernard Pieters, Environmental Spokesperson for AfriForum’s Cape Town North branch.
This means that the high E. coli levels can have an influence on sea life. The Milnerton Lake is also situated near the testing point and this pollution can subsequently present negative consequences to the lake. Further risks include that the polluted water can push up against the coast and beaches and contaminate fishing areas.
“AfriForum must monitor the quality of the drinking and sewage water of the communities by itself, because Government is refusing to perform its duties in this case,” says Tommy van Zyl, Chairperson of AfriForum’s Cape Town North branch.
AfriForum will institute its own investigation to determine the cause of the pollution.
