Chch report on earthquake reports

Extensive repair work and clearance of blockages has meant that overflows and discharge of sewage into local rivers has now ceased.

City Water and Waste Manager Mark Christison says Council contractors have made repairs and cleared blockages which were causing discharges into the Avon and Styx rivers.

“We are pleased the work has been done so quickly – it is only two months since the earthquake and we have been able to make repairs much faster than we originally thought.

“After the earthquake there were around 2700 homes without a sewage service. At the beginning of this week, there were fewer than 70 and within the next two weeks, we hope to have every home in the city with a sewer service.’’

However Mr Christison says the sewage network in damaged areas is still fragile and if people experience any problems they should ring the Council Call Centre and the Council will investigate as required.

In addition to major pipe and siphon repairs, contractors have laid a new sewer pressure main in Retreat Road and are in the process of laying a new 2km pressure sewer from Brooklands back to the city.

“We have already renewed around 2.3km of water main and another 5km is under construction. We have a further 10km of water main under evaluation and are awaiting a decision from EQC on land remediation prior to these new water mains being laid to replace patched lines repaired after the quake.’’

The Medical Officer of Health is continually reviewing river and beach water quality and is keeping users advised on recreational use.

Mayor Bob Parker paid tribute to Council staff and their efforts.

“Discharging into the rivers was an unfortunate effect of the earthquake. However it is impressive that the extensive repair work to our water and waste network has been undertaken so quickly. The quality of water in our rivers is important to everyone and this is an excellent step forward in our recovery.’’

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