A recent study has objectively confirmed the presence of cancer-causing toxins in the Klip River, raising serious environmental and public health concerns in Gauteng.
What is Causing the Cancer-Causing Toxins?
Researchers from the University of Johannesburg (UJ) have identified alarming levels of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) in the Klip River sediments.
PAHs are toxic organic compounds that cause cancer, organ damage, and developmental disorders.
The 100 km-long Klip River in Gauteng is vital for local communities, livestock, and ecosystems.
Flowing through areas such as Soweto, Lenasia, Henley-on-Klip, and Meyerton, it plays a crucial role in sustaining daily life.
People use its waters for drinking, washing, irrigation, and even religious practices such as baptisms.
The study found that industrial runoff, oil spills, and leaking fuel tanks are the main contributors to the contamination.
It also identified the burning of coal, waste, and biomass in urban and informal settlements as significant sources.
These sources have collectively turned the river into a reservoir of persistent toxins.
How Were the Toxins Discovered?
The UJ research, published in Environmental Monitoring and Assessment, revealed that the total concentrations of PAHs in the river’s sediments reached up to 7.41 mg/kg, far exceeding environmental safety thresholds.
Researchers conducted a toxicity study using zebrafish embryos to assess the ecological impact.
The results showed that 80% of the embryos died after exposure to the contaminated sediments.
The survivors displayed significant malformations and cardiovascular defects.
Given the physiological similarities between zebrafish and humans, these findings raise serious concerns about the potential health risks for local communities.
Slow Government Response Sparks Criticism
According to BusinessTech, despite repeated calls for intervention, the City of Johannesburg has made little progress in addressing the contamination.
Two wastewater treatment plants Goudkoppies and Bushkoppies have been leaking untreated sewage into the river for years, exacerbating the pollution.
Advocacy groups like WaterCAN have expressed frustration, with Dr Ferrial Adam noted that while they expected the contamination, the government’s slow response costs lives.
WaterCan have filed criminal complaints against the city for its inaction.
Call for Immediate, Coordinated Action
The UJ research team emphasises the need for targeted clean-up efforts and stricter industrial regulations.
They also call for enhanced environmental monitoring to mitigate the risks.
There is need to take immediate action to protect public health and preserve the integrity of the Vaal River System, which relies on the Klip River for its water supply.
What measures should be prioritised to effectively address the pollution in the Klip River?
Let us know by leaving a comment below, or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 1.
Subscribe to The South African website’s newsletters and follow us on WhatsApp, Facebook, X and Bluesky for the latest news.
