Concerns over the state of the environment in Ekurhuleni led to the metro purchasing a much-needed dredging machine to rehabilitate the city’s 300 dams and lakes.

Mayor Notmbi Mekgwe said the dredging machine, which cost R7.5 million, was the first of its kind in Gauteng and will play a critical role in assisting the metro to rehabilitate and restore the city’s lakes, which are an important eco-tourism asset.  “The arrival of the machine brings relief to the metro and its residents, who have been equally concerned about the deteriorating conditions of our lakes, dams and wetlands.”

The machine was unveiled at Kleinfontein Dam in Benoni and coincided with the World Wetland Day. The rehabilitation intervention measures include re-vegetation, erosion control structures, pathways and walkways; as well as the control and removal of illegal dumping materials, removal and control of invasive plants and weeds; and assisting local communities in wetland maintenance and care.

The mayor urged communities to refrain from dumping general waste such as bottles, rags, plastic, clothing, bags or any unwanted objects in wetlands, dams or the municipal stormwater drainage systems, as these objects end up polluting the lakes.