Black water and dead fish in Isipingo river

THE Democratic Alliance (DA) in KwaZulu-Natal has conducted an urgent inspection along the Isipingo River following reports of a large-scale fish kill and severe river pollution, raising concerns over environmental degradation and public health risks.

The oversight visit was led by Hannah Lidgett MPL, DA Spokesperson on Economic Development, Tourism and Environmental Affairs (EDTEA), alongside Martin Meyer MPL, DA Durban South Constituency Head, Cllr Andre Beetge, eThekwini EXCO Member, and Isipingo Cllr Shad Nowbuth.

Inspectors reported that an extensive section of the river had turned black, with large numbers of dead fish floating in the water and a pervasive stench from raw sewage and rotting aquatic life. Engagements with the eThekwini Municipality indicated that a construction company may have damaged a major sewer pipeline, causing the spill.

Residents told the DA that this is the third major fish kill in the river, highlighting a recurring environmental problem. Community members also raised concerns about health risks, noting that some individuals are collecting dead fish from the river to sell, potentially endangering consumers.

Environmental damage extends beyond aquatic life. The DA noted that mangrove ecosystems along the river, crucial for biodiversity, water filtration, and coastal protection, have also been affected by repeated sewage spills.

“The loss of aquatic life and the damage to biodiversity cannot be ignored or normalised,” said Lidgett. “These spills have wider consequences, including beach closures and negative impacts on tourism along KwaZulu-Natal’s coastline.”

The DA has called for immediate accountability and remediation. eThekwini representatives are expected to provide a detailed incident report and a plan for restoring the river. The party also plans to request a full report from KZN’s EDTEA department, including assessments of environmental impacts on mangroves and timelines for remediation.

As part of its role within KwaZulu-Natal’s Government of Provincial Unity, the DA pledged to continue applying pressure to ensure public health is protected and that the Isipingo River is rehabilitated for the local community.