The Bulawayo City Council has linked the frequent sewage backups to a rise in people moving from rural areas to urban centers, leading to overburdened infrastructure.
Bulawayo city is expanding with new areas like Emganwini, Emthunzini, and the Magwegwe North Extension currently being developed.
A council report regarding the sewerage sector revealed that local officials were worried about the repeated bursting of sewage pipes, which could expose inhabitants to water-related illnesses.
The indications suggest that several sewage improvement initiatives are scheduled in the city.
Councillor Tinevimbo Maposa called on council to rehabilitate the city’s sewage reticulation system, particularly in old high-density suburbs.
“In most of these areas, the sewer system has collapsed,” the minutes read.
“Most sewage challenges are related to the water supply. If the city had constant water supply, there would be less sewage challenges.
“The sewer system was designed to have running water all the time to prevent slugging.
There are inhabitants who intentionally damage the sewage network by introducing harmful substances into the system.
Council member Khalazani Ndlovu praised the council for addressing sewage spills effectively.
"The system is overwhelmed due to migration from rural areas to cities," Ndlovu stated.
Councillor Adrian Moyo agreed. He praised the committee and department for the sewage system repair carried out by a private company in Ward 2.
“Residents should be warned against depositing wrong materials in the sewer system.”
Councillor Felix Madzana expressed concern over the breakdown of the truck used by the team covering ward 18.
Madzana said this caused a backlog in sewer burst attendance, adding that schools and other public institutions must be prioritised.
Mayor David Coltart hailed the environmental management and engineering services committee and the engineering department for dealing with sewage reticulation challenges.
As stated by the city engineer's office, Bulawayo's water and sewage systems have exceeded their useful life span.
