Wastewater spill closes Sydney river

Residents of Sydney, Australia who live close to Georges River are being advised to avoid any contact with the water until further notice. A New South Wales Health warning has been extended by Sydney Water after raw sewage flowed into the river on Friday (November 22nd). Originally a 48-hour no contact warning was issued for the day after the spill, but Sydney Water extended this by a further two days to ensure public safety.

Wastewater was found to be flowing into the river on Friday following a period of heavy rainfall. The excess rain water had caused the pumps at the Glenfield Wastewater Treatment Plant. As a result people are being advised to avoid all contact with the water, including but not limited to swimming, sailing, fishing and canoeing. Sydney Water has also advised that residents ensure their pets are kept away from the water.

An incredibly heavy downpour in the Campbelltown area caused pumps in a section of the wastewater treatment facilities to fail. The high intake of water triggered the release of wastewater, which had not yet been treated, into the river. The release system is part of emergency back-up technology installed at the plant.

Wastewater was pumped into the plant following the failure by crews using generators and portable pumps. The plant has since resumed pumping, although the capacity is reduced since the incident. It is not yet known how much untreated wastewater flowed into the river. While clean-up work is ongoing, residents have been warned that it is likely that some wastewater will make its way to Botany Bay.

A Sydney water spokeswoman told Australian Associated press that everyone from Macquarie Fields to Botany Bay should ensure they stay clear of the water. Although clean-up operations are ongoing, it is likely that contact with the contaminated water could lead to skin and gut infections, she continued. 

Sydney Water advised that if anyone comes into contact with river water until it is safe to do so that they wash themselves carefully. Residents should seek medical advice if any open wounds come into contact with the contaminated water, the spokeswoman added.