Cesspits and Septic tanks - Our Durban Metro story.

On separate occasions, I discussed septic tanks and soak-aways with two Durban Metro officials.

One said he had lived in a house for 25 years, and didn't even know where his septic tanks were. Roley, the second official, said that we  have had septic tanks and soak-aways for 100 years, so what was the issue?  And then he asked how am connected with sewage, I mentioned I write the Waste Water Watch. He clammed up like clam.

Septic tanks are not the problem. 

I note that in Australia, even homes on waterbourne (municipal) sewerage, have septic tanks in place. It is a brilliant idea, as the sewer works will not get any of the abuse, or blockages. And no sand, which is a killer. If you abuse, it's for your account. 

The real problem, is the french drain (aka soak-away, leach field, cesspits etc). A hundred years ago, one dwelling had no sight of the next, and therefore wastewater had time to naturally biodegrade.  The same property now has 125 houses on it, each producing up to 1500 litres of wastewater every day. These french drains are often out of the way ( and often on the neighbour's boundary). The guy at the lowest point, actually gets paid to live there. The damage done to the environment, and the contamination of groundwater is immense.

French drains are now outlawed in many part of the country and package plants are obligatory. Untreated wastewater must not find its way into the underground environment, where ground water becomes polluted.

I meant to ask sceptic Roley to look outside and see what else has changed in 100 years.

Is it the same story - wait until it bites you?