The City of Cape Town has closed the Zandvlei water area until further notice as a precautionary measure following water quality concerns.

The City undertook water quality testing at various points within the Zandvlei water body and results showed high levels of faecal coliforms (Escherichia coli) within the water body, which indicate an elevated risk to human health.

The high E. coli count is a result of a sewage spill that happened early last week due to a bulk sewer main collapse. The City in statement said it has been monitoring the effect of the sewage spill on the water and the additional pollutants entering the vlei from the catchment area.

“The additional pollutants are as a result of the flushing effect of the recent rain after an extended dry period. The results of these water quality tests dictated the decision to apply a precautionary approach for the safety of the residents of Cape Town,” the City said.

“The City will continue to monitor the water quality and expects to see an improvement in these levels soon. In the meantime, signage has been erected advising visitors to the vlei to exercise due caution.”

The City apologised for any inconvenience caused as a result of the closure of the water area and thanked the public for their cooperation during this period.